DARREN Manning says he will not look at the Essex Senior League table until after Christmas as Hullbridge Sports returned to the top of the table.

Sports had lost top spot to Stansted following a 2-2 draw at the weekend but beat Clapton 4-2 on Tuesday to return to first position.

Goals from Luke Hornsley, Jimmy Cox and a brace from Nathan Scarborough saw Sports over the line.

And manager Manning said the result was really pleasing.

“We want to get the points on the board and I won’t look at the league table until after Christmas,” said Manning.

“There was traffic beforehand and that could have hindered preparation but we were good. It was an even first half and an exciting game but we took control after that.

“We slowed it and managed it well. It was a professional display and we had that spark back following the last few games.

“We reinforced a few points to the players and we want them to enjoy their football. They were doing that and it showed.”