BOSS Ollie Cherrett knows Christchurch are entering a key stage of the season as they look to keep their Wessex One promotion push on track.

Priory tonight host fifth-placed AFC Stoneham at Hurn Bridge in the first of four games which could go a long way to determining their fate (7.45pm).

Trips to Ringwood, Weymouth and Shaftesbury, coupled with the visit of leaders Laverstock & Ford on January 14, will test Christchurch’s credentials.

Cherrett has presided over an impressive recent run which has seen Priory win 12 of their past 14 league games, leaving them firmly in the hunt in fourth place.

“I have been really pleased with the way we have played,” said Cherrett. “We have been playing well and are looking dangerous going forward.

“But, more importantly, we have cut out the silly individual errors defensively.

“Stoneham are on a good run and will be another stern test. We played well there early in the season and won 2-1 in the last minute.

“Apart from Sam Thompson, we have a fully-fit squad so that gives me a headache.

“We have three big games in 10 days and then host the leaders. The boys are really looking forward to the challenges ahead.”

Star striker Luke Stone and goalkeeper Andy Knights both return to the Priory squad.