Joe Mant has been hailed as the best keeper in their division by Kennington boss Dan Scorer.

It’s been a tough start to the Southern Counties East Premier Division for early-season basement boys Ton.

They have kept three clean sheets in total - coming in consecutive games after an opening-day 5-1 loss at Corinthian - but are without a shut-out since.

Mant helped keep Kennington in their match at early frontrunners Faversham last Tuesday, though, which culminated in a 2-1 defeat.

“I thought he was exceptional,” said Scorer on Mant, who represented England at the six-a-side 2019 World Cup in Greece. “He has been all season, to be honest.

“In all honesty, without Joe, I don’t like to think where we would be! We may be bottom of the table but I think he’s the best goalkeeper in the league.

“I know any side in this league would happily take him. We’re very grateful he is with us.

“Hopefully, he continues with the form he has shown at the start of this season.”

Ton will return to action after a free weekend. They are at Deal this Sunday (3pm), with the fixture being pushed back a day due to the match coming on this year’s GroundHop Weekend.

Steve King’s promotion-chasing Hoops are finding their groove after a slow start to the campaign.

Scorer said: “I think you can look at their league position and say ‘That should be a close game’ - but they’re a side we expect to be right up there come the end of the season.

“It’s not an easy one but we will do our best.”

They then are due to visit newly-promoted Snodland on Wednesday.