INJURY-plagued hitman Richard Gillespie admits he "owes Poole Town a full season" and insists a top-half finish should be within their grasp in National South.

Gillespie played only his sixth league match since September on Saturday but led the line expertly as Dolphins won the Southern League by beating Dunstable 3-0.

Known as Mr Goals for his free-scoring exploits across Hampshire, Gillespie's three seasons in Dorset have been beset by problems, limiting him to just 63 appearances in all competitions.

And while he has still weighed in with an impressive 32 goals, he is desperate to enjoy an uninterrupted campaign as Poole embark on their journey into the unknown.

Gillespie told the Daily Echo: "Poole have been so nice to me, treated me very well and kept believing I will come back and score goals.

"That makes life easier when you're injured. There has been no pressure from anyone at the club because they know when I am not playing, I am seeing physios, working down at the gym and doing everything I can.

"But I do feel as though I have unfinished business here. I owe the club a full season and hopefully, that will be next season.

"I could not have predicted what happened this season. It all started at King's Lynn in September when I got that whack in the back and it put me out for much longer than I expected.

"Looking back now, it is what it is and I am delighted to win the league, even though I wanted to play a much bigger part.

"When I did play, I felt like I made considerable contributions and against Dunstable, I felt I played well considering I had been out for so long.

"It was a relief more than anything and now, I just want to stay fit and get back to scoring goals."

Gillespie, who experienced non-league's second tier with Eastleigh, is adamant Poole will have nothing to fear in their new surroundings.

"Having played at both levels, there is a gap in terms of technical ability," he added.

"The Southern League is very hard to get out of because the players work so hard. They are big, physical lads who give 100 per cent but in the National League, they have all that with greater technique.

"You have to be on your game every week. If you have an off day, you get beaten by two or three in matches that you would get a draw out of in the Southern League.

"But I think the step up will suit us. We will play on better surfaces and at better grounds.

"Sometimes, we came unstuck at places where it was more like rugby so we should benefit in that respect.

"With a couple of additions, I think we will be pushing on and in the top half of the table."

Dolphins round off their home fixtures against Bideford tonight and will be presented with the championship trophy immediately after.

Boss Tom Killick may not risk Gillespie while he builds up his fitness. Michael Walker returns from suspension.

Elsewhere, Wimborne Town travel to AFC Totton for their penultimate Southern South & West clash, while in the Sydenhams Wessex Premier, Poppies entertain Hamworthy United (all 7.45pm).