On another key night in the thrilling Ryman League Premier Division title race, Canvey again stole a march on runaway leaders Farnborough.

Jeff King's magnificent overworked braves pulled off their fourth League triumph in seven days to narrow the gap behind the top dogs to 16 points with six games in hand.

For, while the Islanders were triumphing courtesy of a 24th minute goal from John Kennedy, Farnborough were being held to a goalless home draw by Chesham.

After a record-breaking run of 16 straight wins, Farnborough have now drawn their last three matches.

In wind and rain, King's men went into action last night (Thursday) with a side that showed five changes from the one that started the home match the previous evening when Maidenhead, like Slough battling against relegation, were beaten 1-0.

Kennedy's goal followed a superb five-man passing move which eventually saw Steve Parmenter set the ex-Ipswich Town youngster up for the vital effort. Gulls dominated the first-half and in-form attack leader Neil Gregory had two fine first-half headers saved.

Canvey continued to dominate at the start of the second-half and both Gregory and Kennedy both went close again.

However, Slough, fighting for their lives, launched a late rally which saw superb visiting goalkeeper Ashley Harrison produce a great tip round the post from Derek Asamoah's effort to ensure all three points.

Afterwards King praised the superb efforts of his side and paid particularly tribute to defender Craig "Crow" Davidson, who has not figured in too many starting line-ups in recent times.

He said: "Crow was superb this evening. He stepped into our back three, which is not a usual position for him, and gave an outstanding display."

King also revealed that a new member of the backroom team was playing a vital part in keeping his side on the title track - masseuse Shelley Weeks.

He said: "With so many games, aching limbs and bones are the biggest enemy to the players' fitness. I've been able to shuffle our squad to give players a rest and those who are not in action on any night are being given massages before and during games."

Canvey face a massive match with the Premier's top supported side, Aldershot, at Park Lane tomorrow (Saturday).

It is a strange game for the visitors as, much as they would love to beat the Islanders, they desperately want to avoid seeing near neighbours Farnborough taking the title.

After Monday's Essex Senior Cup final with Conference side Dagenham and Redbridge at Southend United's Roots Hall ground, Gulls embark on a crazy run of five away League games in seven days from Tuesday.

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