BRIGHTLINGSEA Regent chairman Terry Doherty believes boss Kem Izzet is "turning the tide" at his club - and does not deserve a relegation on his CV.

The R's are waiting with "bated breath" to see what happens in terms of the relegation picture.

With non-league football on hold because of the coronavirus, discussions are ongoing as to how to decide who goes up and down.

The campaign could be declared null and void or final positions could be determined on a points-per-game ratio.

Brightlingsea are bottom of the BetVictor Isthmian League premier division and staring down the barrel at relegation, along with Merstham.

However, Doherty is keeping his fingers crossed for a reprieve.

"Everyone is waiting with bated breath to see what happens next," said the R's chairman.

"There are various scenarios and so many ramifications.

"However, those ramifications probably won't be announced for a while, so everyone's hanging on.

"With nine games left - nearly a quarter of a season - we'd obviously be disappointed to be relegated.

"There are so many points left to play for and one win could have lifted us out of bottom three.

"The tide was turning. We were terrific in our last game and things were boding well.

"Our hearts were set on a good finish but this situation is a freak of nature and an act of god.

"We can't control it and I feel for Kem.

"He came in at a difficult time. Then we had to cut the budget.

"We were due an upturn at just the right time and if we end up being relegated, it'll go down on his CV. He doesn't deserve that.

"That said, we'll accept whatever cards we're dealt and I feel for the guys who run the leagues.

"It's an impossible decision and whatever they decide, they're going to be criticised by someone.

"People are worrying about the situation but while people are dying, ill and struggling, it seems wrong to think about football too much.

"The bigger picture, and people's health, is far more important."

While the lack of football is an issue for clubs both on and off the pitch, in terms of finance, Doherty says Regent are on a sound footing and now only have two contracted players - skipper Matt Cripps and midfielder Jake Turner.

"Not so long ago we had three or four lads on contract," he said.

"So in that respect, in terms of having to pay players, we're not massively affected. Certainly not as much as other clubs.

"Everyone else here does it on a voluntary basis and gives up their time for free.

"Phil Calver and Gavin Aplin, our finance guys, have done an excellent job to get us on a sound footing this term.

"However, next season is going to very difficult for us and, like all sports organisations, money will be hard to come by during the recovery period.

"We'll be hoping to keep our main sponsor, Taydal Surfacing LTD, and will be actively seeking new revenue streams to keep the club afloat and competitive."