Kingstonian go in hunt of an FA Trophy foirst round proper berth with the Ryman Premier League’s best player in their ranks, according to the former club’s boss.

Midfielder Dan Bennett scored a double ion last week’s 2-1 second qualifying round win over Dorchester Town and was the provider for substitute Ricky Sappleton’s late double that secured a win by the same score at struggling Lewes on Saturday.

Ex-Ks chief Alan Dowson was a face in the crowd at Kingsmeadow last Monday and he was suitably impressed by the former Farnborough man’s contribution.

“Ks have done so well to get him on a contract,” he said.

“I’ve seen almost all of the Ryman Premier League teams this season and there is no-one better than him.

“He has strength, pace, an eye for a pass and can score goals. He is the best player in the league at the minute.”

Bennett is enjoying his football again after a troubled spell at Farnborough where he joined and left the club four times, much to the frustration of boss Spencer Day.

And the freedom to play, given to him by Ks chief Tommy Williams, is behind his renaissance.

“I’m a creative player so I’ll keep expressing myself as much as possible and that is what the boss wants me to do,” he said ahead of Saturday’s third qualifying round visit from Truro City.

“I’m enjoying my football, I’m happy and hopefully it shows on the pitch.

“It was ups and downs at Farnborough. It looked more negative from the outside than what it was.

“They’ve given me the freedom here if I work hard and I feel I’m doing that.

“I’m in a good place.”