CHRISTCHURCH boss Ollie Cherrett has praised Shane Sheridan’s impact at New Milton – but is desperate to end his opposite number’s honeymoon period.

Former Bashley and New Milton striker Sheridan has revived the club’s fortunes since being handed the manager’s job at Fawcett’s Field on an interim basis last month.

Sheridan, who took over after Linnets had lost nine games on the trot, has made an unbeaten start to his management career, presiding over two wins and a 2-2 draw with high-fliers Baffins Milton Rovers.

He is being assisted by Joe Sullivan, a well-known figure in local non-league circles, and the pair will take the reins when New Milton meet Christchurch in the Bypass Derby at Hurn Bridge tomorrow (3pm).

Priory, who saw their 13-match unbeaten league run ended at Alton six days ago, host a Linnets team which crosses the county border fresh from recorded a resounding 5-0 win over Hythe & Dibden.

Cherrett told the Daily Echo: “Shane has come in and given them real belief and togetherness. I take my hat off to him because he has done an absolutely unbelievable job.

“They have taken points off some of our biggest rivals at the top and we are going to have to be at our best if we are going to get anything out of the game.

“Shane has got a good bunch of lads and they are clearly working hard for him. When you have that as a manager, you’ve got half a chance.

“I am hoping we will have a reaction to last week’s disappointment and perhaps a derby is the perfect tonic. We are looking forward to it.

“You can make excuses but we didn’t perform against Alton. We had a few injuries and it was a 4G pitch, but Alton were superb.

“If you don’t perform in this league, teams will take points off you. We had a good training session on Wednesday and the boys are well up for it.”

Fourth-placed Christchurch were last night hoping to complete deals for Cherries youngster Ben Cooper and Portland United defender Sam Buckler.

Frontman Cooper, who has played in the Southern League for AFC Totton and Wimborne this season, is expected to join on a work experience basis, while Buckler, who is on the comeback trail following a double leg break, has been in talks regarding a permanent move.

Also in Wessex One, Ringwood entertain Downton at Long Lane.

In Sydenhams Wessex Premier, Poppies host AFC Portchester, while Lymington welcome Bemerton.

Hamworthy United visit Alresford, Bashley travel to Cowes Sports and Brockenhurst head to leaders Moneyfields.

Bottom-placed Verwood, who lost 3-0 at home to Horndean on Wednesday, have a free Saturday.