If you had told Tilbury that they'd go into the first Saturday of the new year in tenth place in Ryman One even their most loyal of supporters would have given you a funny look.

The Dockers have exceeded all expectations under manager Bill McMeekin, although he'll know better than most than staying in the top half of the table isn't going to be easy.

Had Louie Evans not been tempted away from St Chad's by the lure of the Conference, then it might have been a different matter.

A run of four straight defeats followed his departure, ending last Saturday at Great Wakering, with the only goal coming from Evans' replacement Jermaine Dominique.

Tomorrow, Dockers will expect three points against a Barton side who have no wins in their last four and, like their hosts, are coming to terms with the loss of their top marksman, Drew Roberts, was has joined Ryman Premier outfit Bedford.

Meanwhile, East Thurrock now face the most important four months in their recent history as they try to avoid dropping out of the division and into the feeder leagues.

If Rocks could get even a point against second-placed Wealdstone at Rookery Hill there would be no better start to 2003.

Published Friday, January 3, 2003

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