MALDON and Tiptree boss Terry Spillane hopes new signing Leon McKenzie can fire his side into the Ryman League play-offs.

The front man has rejoined on loan from East Thurrock and made his second debut for the Park Drive side in Saturday’s 0-0 draw at Romford.

Spillane knows McKenzie well, having handed him his senior football debut as a 15-year-old at Snaresbrook.

And he says the experienced front man has not lost any of his passion for goal-scoring – something that could tip the scales in his side’s favour during the final weeks of the season.

“Leon’s a really good player and someone I know well,” said Spillane.

“He’s a proven, experienced striker but he hasn’t lost any of his desire for scoring goals.

“All front men have to have that and he still gets a lot of pleasure out of finding the back of the net.

“On top of that, he’s a good lad to have around and he ticks all the boxes for me, both as a player and a person. That’s a good combination.”

Maldon visit second-placed Soham Town Rangers at the weekend and host leaders VCD Athletic next Tuesday.