Herne Bay boss Ben Smith praises goal-scoring contributions from his team's defence ahead of trip to Lancing

Ben Smith has praised the goal-scoring contributions from Herne Bay’s defence this season.

Dan Johnson netted in their 2-0 derby success over Faversham last weekend, his fifth goal of the campaign, before Rory Smith added a second to seal the win.

Johnson is one goal behind Bay skipper and centre-back partner Laurence Harvey, while Dan Carrington and injured right-back Ryan Cooper have also chipped in with goals.

Bay manager Smith said: “I was disappointed with my centre-backs against Sevenoaks. I had some choice words for them but, taking the season as a whole, we have been really good there.

“Whatever combination we have had, we have been solid and they have chipped in with some goals.

“Yes, we have some obvious candidates for goals but getting more goals from set-pieces has been a really welcome addition.

“We have Laurence Harvey on six and Dan Johnson on five.

"If one could get double figures, that would be beautiful!”

Sixth-placed Herne Bay are back within sight of a play-off spot, two points behind Cray Valley, and four points adrift of Haywards Heath in fourth - but with a game in hand on both.

Bay have signed former Charlton and Faversham playmaker Eddie Allsopp, while the club are in talks with a higher-league club about taking another midfielder on loan for the rest of the season.

On Allsopp, who had been on trial with League 2 Harrogate while with Faversham, Smith commented: “He will suit our style of play down to the ground.”

Bay visit Lancing this Saturday, looking to complete the double over them after a 2-1 home win in November, before they take on Faversham at Salters Lane on Tuesday.

“Any club at this stage of the season will fancy themselves at home,” Smith stated.

“But if you look at records, I think