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Hythe Town manager Steve Watt explains why he won't be setting leading scorer Johan Caney-Bryan a goal target

Hythe manager Steve Watt says there’s no need to set in-form striker Johan Caney-Bryan a goal target.

Caney-Bryan has seven league goals in 12 games after completing the scoring in the 3-1 Isthmian South East win over Lancing at the weekend.

Johan Caney-Bryan scored Hythe's third against Lancing. Picture: Randolph File
Johan Caney-Bryan scored Hythe's third against Lancing. Picture: Randolph File

The 20-goal benchmark looks achievable for a player who has thrived as the focal point in attack since signing from Sittingbourne last summer.

But Watt said: “I don’t see the point in setting strikers goal targets.

“I know people have personal targets but I think it just adds pressure and can lead to making wrong decisions in key moments.

“I just tell him to play his game and do his job for the team.

“If he’s doing that, he’ll get chances and he’ll keep getting the goals his performances deserve.

“He doesn’t need to do anything different. He’s been fantastic for us - I’m over the moon with him.

“Seven goals in 12 league games is a great return and his all-round game has been outstanding.

“I don’t think he’s used to being a 90-minute man in his career. He’s always been in and out and played bit-parts.

“When you get the chance to be the main man, it goes one of two ways, but he’s risen to the challenge and done everything you want from your No.9.

Hythe striker Johan Caney-Bryan in action against Lancing. Picture: Randolph File
Hythe striker Johan Caney-Bryan in action against Lancing. Picture: Randolph File

“The players he’s got around him have helped, in terms of chances created, and he’d probably say he should have a few more goals.”

Caney-Bryan’s strike partner, Frannie Collin, also drew praise from Watt following his performance against Lancing.

The 35-year-old added to Liam Smith’s early opener by doubling the lead from the penalty spot.

It was Hythe’s first win in five games and lifted them up to 14th.

“When Frannie steps up, you’re almost turning away saying it’s a goal,” said Watt, whose side go to third-bottom Haywards Heath this Saturday (3pm).

“I know he doesn’t feel pressure, in terms of what he’s done in his career, but it was a big moment in the game for us, knowing how much we needed a win.

“He’s 35 but he’s still one of the fittest in the team. A player like Fran leads by example in everything he does.

“Everyone associates him with goals and the pretty side of the game but he does a lot of stuff defensively that probably goes unnoticed."

Hythe have confirmed a 1pm kick-off for their home game against VCD on December 3.

The December 10 meeting with Burgess Hill and the Kent derby against Corinthian on January 7 will start at 2pm.

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