BRIGHTLINGSEA REGENT boss James Webster is preparing for a crucial few days in his side’s quest for promotion.

The Tendring high-fliers head to CRC tonight, looking to build on Saturday’s Thurlow Nunn League premier division success against Diss.

It was a result that kept them in the running for top spot, especially as leaders Hadleigh United lost at home to Godmanchester Rovers.

And another twist could be just around the corner, as Hadleigh head to second-placed Felixstowe & Walton on Saturday.

“This could be a big week, in terms of our goal of finishing in the promotion places,” said Webster.

“We’re expecting another tough game tonight, against a well-organised CRC side.

“But if we can win, it will more pressure on the team around us, especially with Felixstowe and Hadleigh playing on Saturday.”

Webster will be without three key players tonight.

Kevin Hughes misses out after having a knee operation but could return in Saturday’s match at Kirkley & Pakefield.

Charlie Thompson is unavailable due to a restriction on the number of games he can play, set by the Colne Football Academy.

And Phil Kelly is set to miss the rest of this month after breaking his metatarsal in Regent’s FA Vase last-16 defeat at Dunston UTS.

“Phil’s injury is worse than we first thought,” said Webster.

“He’ll miss the rest of this month but will hopefully be back for our games in April.”

Regent are currently second, a point behind Felixstowe.

However, they still have five games in hand.

If they slip up, though, there is every chance they will be leap-frogged into third spot by Gorleston, who visit basement boys Woodbridge tonight.

In division one, BRAINTREE TOWN RESERVES head to Dereham Town Reserves.