Sittingbourne boss Ryan Maxwell planning for the play-offs with four games left of their Isthmian South East season remaining

Sittingbourne manager Ryan Maxwell wants to stay competitive while taking care of his squad for their forthcoming play-off battle.

The Brickies lost 3-0 at Three Bridges on Saturday as some key men were left out of the starting XI and Maxwell will continue to monitor the squad to keep them fresh and injury-free for what lies ahead.

His side drew 1-1 at Littlehampton Town last night (Tuesday) – a result that all but secures a play-off spot – and host Lancing on Saturday. Gabriel Piorkowski scored in his own net on 71 minutes in the midweek match but put the ball in at the right end 10 minutes later to level the score.

“There is always an element of risk but it was worth it for me,” said Maxwell, reflecting on their weekend defeat and his team selection.

“I got what I needed, the only disappointing thing is that we were unbeaten away from home up until that point this season. But for the bigger picture, I certainly learned what I needed from it.”

Maxwell left top scorer Mitchell May out of the line-up on Saturday before recalling him on Tuesday. Captain Bagasan Graham was also back in the XI for the midweek clash along with defender Joe Tyrie.

Maxwell’s side are almost certain to be in the play-offs this season – another point would guarantee it but their impressive goal difference should mean they don’t even need that – but finishing third would give them home advantage in a semi-final clash.

Isthmian South East table

The manager said: “We have one eye on the future, looking at minutes and the risk factor and taking care of everyone while at the same time trying to be competitive and trying to stay in good form.

“As everyone knows, when you haven’t got a big squad you have to look after your players and that’s what