Manager Ryan Maxwell says teenage goalkeeper Harley Earle is as good as any signing he’s made at Sittingbourne.

Earle claimed the man-of-the-match award as Bourne drew 0-0 with Cray Valley on Saturday and was also named Maxwell’s player-of-the-month for February after the game.

The keeper’s loan from Maidstone has already been extended until the end of the season and that’s good news for the Brickies as they push for Isthmian South East safety.

“Harley’s been fantastic,” said Maxwell.

“Sometimes he’s not had a lot to do and that’s when it’s even more important you stay switched on.

“He’s only just turned 19 and we’re constantly on him about that.

“He was actually active on Saturday for the first time really since he’s been here and he was outstanding.

“He made three very good saves, a couple of good claims and his kicking was excellent as well.

“Despite his young age, he showed great maturity. We’ve got him until the end of the season and a big thank-you to Maidstone for how helpful they’ve been.

“Their player’s out getting experience and he’s contributing for us, so it works well for everybody involved.

“I’ve got to say, he’s as good a signing as I’ve made since I’ve been here.”

Earle isn’t the biggest but Maxwell says that needn’t be a problem as the youngster progresses with his career.

It will only become an issue if managers make it one.

“He’s got the ability to play higher,” said Maxwell.

“It will take a brave manager to play him because he’s not the biggest.

“Even if he grew another inch he’d be 5ft10in if you’re lucky but that doesn’t matter.

“Ultimately, he’s that athletic type, he’s explosive and a fantastic shot-stopper.

“He doesn’t play like he’s small. The way he plays, he’s a big character, so you don’t notice his height.

“His positional sense is very good, he doesn’t get exposed and when the ball comes in the box he claims it.

“He’s not one who stays on his line and waits for defenders to head it. His lack of height will only be an issue if people make it an issue.”

The point against Cray Valley moved Sittingbourne out of the bottom four for the first time this year, with Maxwell praising his side's resilience.

And they made it five games unbeaten with goals from Donvieve Jones and Correy Davidson in a 2-1 home win over Chichester on Tuesday night, a result that moved them up to 14th.

Maxwell has made big changes since succeeding Nick Davis and feels he has players capable of being with the club for a promotion push next season.

Former Brightlingsea midfielder Toch Singh is the latest recruit, with one more set to follow before Saturday's home game against Three Bridges.

Maxwell said: “They’re here to do the job in hand and give me peace of mind, knowing I’ve got players who are good enough to challenge for the top six next season.

“What we don’t have will be replaced but everyone who’s here has an opportunity to play for the club next season.”

Winger Youssouf Bamba has left Sittingbourne for Isthmian South East leaders Ramsgate.

“He’s played some good games for us but I felt it was the right time to make a change,” said Maxwell.

“I made that decision with the player’s interests in mind as well and we wish him all the best.”