Dereham Town will be hoping to finally find the net and put a 3-0 home defeat to AFC Hornchurch behind them when they visit Heybridge Swifts on Saturday, writes Rene Kendal.

Assistant manager Neal Simmons, who is taking charge for a couple of weeks in the absence of Matt Henman, is confident the side – who have failed to win any of their first three Ryman North fixtures of the season – can soon get a win under their belts.

He said: 'We worked hard to earn a good point at Haringey Borough on the opening day of the season. There was then little between us and AFC Sudbury and they just won by a solitary goal.

'It was disappointing on Saturday. We didn't create many chances and made too many silly mistakes. We will be working hard on the shape of the team, but we must be realistic. It will take time for us to gel.'

Dereham's cause at the weekend wasn't helped by injuries to Sam Borrer, Ryan Crisp and Olly Willis.

'On a positive note we will be welcoming back Adam Smith to the side that is available following work commitments,' said Simmons, who also takes the Magpies to Brightlingsea Regent on Tuesday evening.

'There is no need to panic, it is a long season, the goals will soon come. We still aim to strengthen the squad if the right players become available.'

Fakenham Town host Kirkley & Pakefield (Friday) and Thurlow Nunn Premier Division champions Norwich United (Wednesday) after drawing 0-0 at home to Huntingdon Town in Saturday's FA Cup extra preliminary round. Their replay was played last night – after the paper had already gone to print.