TOM Killick says he has no problem keeping his players focused – despite Poole Town’s well-publicised off-field distractions.

Dolphins, aiming to lift the Sydenhams Wessex League title for the third season in a row, have just seen Wimborne Town turn down a ground share proposal.

And Poole Town chairman Chris Reeves is “not optimistic” they will be able to agree a deal with Hamworthy United to share their facilities at the County Ground.

With Dolphins having also recently submitted a planning application for a new stadium at Canford Magna after seeing their controversial bid to relocate to Branksome Rec rejected by the council, off-field affairs attract as many headlines as Poole’s on-field victories.

But Killick said: “We’ve had to deal with these off-field distractions for the past three seasons.

“There’s always been speculation about what happens if we win the league.

“I know one of the reasons our group of players continue to do so well is because they’re all huge competitors.

“They desperately want to finish top of the league, no matter what happens to the club in the future. They want to come out winners in May.

“Promotion is something we’ll have to look at then, if we qualify.”

Poole are also targeting FA Vase success and they host Wantage in the third round tomorrow (3pm).

The winners entertain Wroxham, last season’s losing finalists, or St Ives Town in the last 32.

Aside from suspended midfielder Micky Hubbard, Killick has a full strength squad to choose from.

Dolphins: (from) Jones, Poore, Warner, S Walker, M Walker, Dibba, McCormick, Skelton, Richardson, Preston, Gill, Douglas, Smith, Cann, Roberts, Browning.