Jersey Bulls boss hopes to keep striker Bickley fit

Lorne Bickley played in the United States college system and had spells at Hartlepool United and Kettering Town

Jersey Bulls boss Elliot Powell hopes the club can keep record goalscorer Lorne Bickley fit after he made an impact on his return from injury.

The 27-year-old came off the bench to score Bulls' third goal in their 3-1 win over Hastings United in the FA Trophy on Saturday.

Bickley had been out for a month after injuring his hamstring in the opening game of the season.

But Powell hopes his attacking focal point can stay healthy having had a number of injury setbacks in recent seasons.

"I don't think many clubs at this level will be bringing on a striker who scored 100 goals for the club for the last half an hour and can run run defences ragged," Powell told BBC Radio Jersey.

"I'm really happy with Lorne's progress since he's been back, credit to Jan [Bentley] and the strength and conditioning team, they've built him back really well and we've edged him back, we haven't thrown him back in.

"I think that's been a problem for Lorne over his years with the Bulls that he's been so relied upon that as soon as he's fit someone starts him and you can't do that with him, he's a big unit, he needs looking after.

"He did well when he came on that last half an hour, it puts him in a good place and he'll be in contention to start next week."

Jersey Bulls have been drawn away to fellow eighth-tier side Harrow Borough in the second round over the weekend of Saturday 20 September.

Harrow are currently third in Isthmian League South Central having won three of their four league fixtures this season.