FC CLACTON boss David Coyle believes his side are still capable of a strong finish to the season – which could yet win them promotion.

The Seasiders dipped to seventh in Ridgeons League division one after two defeats over Easter.

Their poor run continued with a 6-2 setback at Diss Town on Saturday, with the goals coming from Kevin Coyle and Gregg Heighway.

Heighway was then on target on Monday, when the Seasiders conceded two late goals in a much-improved performance at Newmarket.

They eventually lost 2-1 but Coyle told the Gazette: “We were very unlucky and, in terms of the way we played, I couldn’t have been more pleased.

“If we’d performed like that in the last few weeks, instead of dropping so many points, we’d have won the league by now.

“We’re still in with a shout (in terms of promotion) and we’ve got to hang in there and put pressure on the teams above us.

“We’re definitely capable of a strong finish and I firmly believe we’re one win away from winning three or four games in a row.

“We just need that little fillip of confidence.”

Coyle has confirmed he will be staying at the club beyond this season.

His future had been cast into doubt after he was offered a promotion by his employers, Colchester United.

The new hours would have made it impossible for him to continue as Seasiders boss.

However, the situation has now been resolved, whereby he will still take on more responsibility at work but be able to carry on at the Rush Green Bowl.

Coyle – whose side visit Downham tomorrow – said: “I’m delighted it’s all sorted. I never wanted to leave.

“I love it here and want to finish what we’ve started.

“At one point there was a big chance I would leave but, to put it simply, I’ve now taken on extra responsibilities at work which won’t affect my Clacton duties.”

l Halstead Town manager Jody Brown thinks captain Steve Daly can have a huge influence in the club’s on-going promotion push.

Skipper Daly hit a last-gasp equaliser to salvage a precious point for Town in their 2-2 draw at Saffron Walden Town on Monday.

The goal capped a fine solo display by the former Heybridge Swifts and Tiptree United midfielder.

And ahead of the trip to play bottom club Fakenham Town tomorrow, boss Brown feels Daly can play a vital role in helping Halstead secure promotion.

Brown said: “Steve took the game by the scruff of the neck.

“He’s a key player for us and that’s why he is our captain.

“He creates more goals than anyone and I think he’s scored around 20 goals from midfield this season.”

Brown has warned Fakenham must not be taken lightly tomorrow.

The Ghosts have endured a tortuous season, tasting victory only three times in division one.

However, ahead of Halstead’s trip to Clipbush Park, boss Brown thinks the Norfolk side have to be taken seriously.

He added: “They drew at Clacton and only lost 2-1 at Hadleigh United so we will have to be at our best.”

Halstead will check on the fitness of Terry Rayner (knee) and Ryan Sutton (ankle) ahead of the clash.

Striker Ray Turner is hoping to shake off a stomach bug in order to play.