Boxing Day preview - Rye United

The Quarterboys will continue their pursuit of the Sussex County Football League title by making the short trip to Gullivers on Monday (Boxing Day). Kick-off is 11am.

Price, Rye’s manager, said: “This is going to be their (Sidley’s) cup final. But with all due respect to Sidley, we’re going for the league so Sidley’s just another game.”

Rye have won their last six matches in all competitions and haven’t lost in the league since the 2-1 reverse at home to Pagham on October 8. They have also scored a massive 96 goals in 31 games so far this season.

“If we work as hard as they work, I think our quality will come through,” continued Price. “But it’s all about how we adapt ourselves. They’re not going to give us time or space and they’ll make it difficult for us.”

Having moved into the top five a month ago, Sidley have since dropped to eighth after taking just one point from a possible 15 and are only two points ahead of the team in 12th.

Price went on: “I’ll be surprised if the game ends up 11 men each. I don’t think our discipline this year has been bad, we just need not to react to what they give us. I’m looking forward to it.”

Paul Watson is unavailable and Ben Radley may have to work, but Shaun Loft has recovered from the shoulder he dislocated against AFC Uckfield on November 9.

Duncan McArthur and Liam Upton have completed their three-match suspensions, although the former is unlikely to start. Jack Franklin, pictured, could also be involved having recovered from his latest long-term injury.

Rye top the Division One table on goal difference from a Pagham side which has played two fewer matches.