PHIL Simkin says he rates Havant & Waterlooville as the best team in the Skrill South and admits he would be “shocked” if they did not make the play-offs at the end of the season.

Speaking after watching the Hampshire club defeat his Dorchester Town side 2-0 at the Avenue last night, Simkin was full of praise for Hawks’ boss Lee Bradbury and the squad he has assembled.

Havant started the clash with the Magpies 16th in the table, but they have a number of fixtures in hand on the sides above them due to postponements and a run to the last four of the FA Trophy.

“I would be very, very surprised if they don’t make the play-offs, shocked in fact,” said Simkin.

“Eastbourne was a good result for us and they are seventh in the league, but there is no comparison between them and Havant.

“They are the best side in the league without a doubt.

“Lee Bradbury is obviously a switched on manager and knows the game inside out.

“He’s got a good mix of powerful players and good footballers all over the pitch.

“If I had the resources he’s got I would sign exactly the same type of players.”

A Scott Jones double gave Havant the three points last night, and it doesn’t get any easier for Dorchester with Bromley visiting the county town on Saturday (3pm).