Midfield maestro Mark Stimson will return to Canvey's Ryman League Premier Division title dogfight tomorrow boosted by a bright international performance in midweek.

On Wednesday, "Stimmo" proved a star turn for the England "National Game" XI which beat the United States 2-1 at Stevenage.

The ex-Southend United, Spurs and Newcastle man provided the opening highlight for the home side when he forced opposition goalkeeper Scott Vallo to an early save.

Stimson was rubbing shoulders with stars from Nationwide Conference outfits and it will be trying to get Canvey among those elite for next term that he will be returning to tomorrow.

Gulls, with eight matches to go, still head the table but only on goal difference from rivals Gravesend and Northfleet, who have a match in hand.

While the Islanders are hosting second from bottom Harrow Borough tomorrow, the Kent men, managed by ex-Southend United full-back Andy Ford, entertain third-placed Grays.

Harrow, who at the moment look favourites to escape the dreaded drop -- Croydon look like filling the only relegation place -- have enjoyed some improved results recently.

Said manager Jeff King: "There's no such things as an easy game at this stage. Every team will want to raise their game against us and because of their plight at the bottom Harrow will have extra reason to fight all the way.

"It's nice to think that Grays might do us a favour at Gravesend tomorrow, but we can't rely on other people helping us. If we can win our last eight we should be champions -- it's as simple as that."

King pleaded with fans to get behind the team in big numbers for the climax of their championship fight. Tthe club's "kids for a quid" promotion will be continued for all remaining home games this term -- but they must be accompanied by an adult.

Published Friday, March 22, 2002