JOHN Coventry is backing Frankie Merrifield and Michael Tweed to continue their fine run of form for East Thurrock United.

Merrifield bagged his 14th goal of the season in Rocks’ 1-0 win over Margate at the weekend, while Tweed made his full debut following his switch to the Isthmian Premier League club.

And Coventry, whose side are three points adrift of the play-off places, is eager to see the duo impress on a regular basis.

“Over the years, I have had some good goalscorers and they always wanted to keep that momentum going,” said the East Thurrock boss.

“Frankie is on a little run and has scored consistently throughout the season.

“He has been brilliant since joining us in the summer and Frankie gives you things a lot of other strikers don’t.

“Michael did well on his full debut and he is a really good lad as well as a great player.

“I needed someone to come into the side and play in a defensive midfield role.

“It was important that we got someone in who could play just in front of the back four and he does it well, so I’m really pleased with him so far.”

And Coventry, whose side are eighth in the standings, believes Rocks have turned a corner.

“I was really pleased with the lads at Margate and we have followed the win over Bowers & Pitsea on New Year’s Day with two good performances,” added Coventry.

“The players are understanding what it takes to win regularly.”