After a settling down period in Ryman North following promotion from the Thurlow Nunn Premier Division last season, Brightlingsea Regent have somewhat found their feet in their new surroundings.

The R’s currently sit in 16th position in the league before today’s trip to fourth-placed Brentwood Town.

Following a tough opening few games in their new environment – losing four of their opening five league matches, James Webster’s men have risen to the challenge of late, picking up some valuable results.

Wins against Waltham Abbey (3-2), Maldon & Tiptree (3-0), and an emphatic 5-0 victory over Thamesmead Town last weekend, has left Regent looking up the table, something that has pleased Webster’s assistant Tom Rothery.

“We started slowly but have picked up results and are gradually getting better,” said Rothery.

“The game against Heybridge (a 2-0 home defeat in August) was the turning point for us and we’re doing okay now.

“I think we are adapting to the league like we had do last season (Regent have won back-to-back promotions from the Thurlow Nunn First and Premier Divisions).”

Regent are no doubt punching high considering their short history – they only formed in 2005 and have climbed the various steps of the Essex & Suffolk Border League, and the Thurlow Nunn Leagues to reach their current position.

“I actually think the Ryman North suits us more than the Thurlow Nunn Premier Division,” declared Rothery, who is also club secretary.

“That’s not a criticism of the Premier Division – it’s a good division, but there is more football played in this league.

“It’s more physical, there are better athletes, and it’s slightly quicker.”

Although the remit for the league’s new-boys remains very much to stay in the league this season, Rothery thinks his side are capable of much more.

“We want to consolidate in the league, but do better than fourth bottom,” he added.

“It’s the same as last year to be honest.

“We go into some great momentum and we want to be as competitive as we can again.

“OK, so the play-offs might be a step too far but my point is that we want to aim higher than fourth bottom.”

Regent have been boosted by the experienced signings of goalkeeper Andrew Plummer (Needham Market) and forward Michael Brothers (Leiston) in the last 10 days, with both making an immediate impact in the win against Thamesmead.

“Both players have great experience and will help us out in both boxes,” added Rothery.

Former Ipswich Town midfielder Amir Berkane is another player shining on loan from Chelmsford City.

Today’s trip to play-off hunting Brentwood Town will be a tough one, especially without key attacking trio Russell Malton, Ben Newson, and Phil Kelly, but Regent are a resurgent side on the up.