COLIN McBride's Thurrock may be getting less of the limelight since neighbours Grays overtook them and got into the Conference but they have been quietly going about their own business and are on the cusp of the play-off positions in the Conference South.

On Saturday they entertain Sutton United, who harbour their own ambitions of a play-off place and McBride expects a tough test.

He said: "They are a good side. They had a great start to the season and have fallen away a bit since but they have got some good players. I've said it before but it's true, there's not many easy games in this league and it's very rare for me to be sitting on the bench feeling comfortable."

After an impressive FA Trophy 3-0 win at Eastbourne last week McBride is likely to select an unchanged side, which means a continuing lone striker role for Steve Harper.