TOM Killick is pleased his table-topping Poole side are "in contention" after the first five games of the season.

Dolphins' victory over Wimborne on Monday saw his side move into first place of Southern League South on 10 points, the same tally they had at this stage 12 months ago.

But three defeats from the following five league games in 2018-19 left Poole playing catch-up, eventually scrambling a play-off spot on the final day.

Ahead of Saturday's trip to Swindon Supermarine (3pm), Killick is eager for his side to keep their foot on the pedal and not slip off the pace.

He told the Daily Echo: "I think the big thing this season was that last season we were slow starting and we left ourselves too much ground to make up.

"We felt it was very important that we didn't do that this time around, that we did try and stay in contention and at the moment we're in contention, which is all we can ask."

Discussing the upcoming fixture, he added: "I feel we are always competitive away from home. Swindon have got some good players, they're a well-resourced club and it's going to be hard.

"But we do revel in tough away trips and we come into it with a good return over the bank holiday weekend, so I think the players have a bit of confidence and belief about themselves."