Croydon Athletic manager Tim O'Shea says his young side must learn to cope with the pressure of being out in front as they get set to take over top spot in Ryman League Division One South.

Current leaders Folkestone Invicta are set to be hit with a 10-point penalty after entering into a Company Voluntary Agreement with their creditors this week, meaning the Rams will leapfrog them into first place.

"Chasing a team out in front and being out in front are two different kinds of pressure," said O'Shea.

"We have got a young squad and it will be interesting to see how they handle that pressure as it's one thing getting there but it's another staying there.

"It's a shame for Neil Cugley and the job he has achieved at Folkestone but any side in the chasing pack would take it, not just us.

"We would rather be there on merit than through the misfortune of Folkestone but I am sure us and the other teams will take it with open arms."

Gareth Williams scored his second hat-trick in three games for the Rams on Saturday as they beat Merstham 5-1 at the Moatside, but O'Shea has warned the experience striker his place in the side is by no means assured.

"You can't give him too many chances as he is quite clinical in front of goal," he said.

"But Gareth knows he has to keep his form going as we have two other very decent forwards in Ben Godfrey and Gary Noel.

"Gary is the leading scorer in the league but has found himself on the bench for the last two games.

"Whoever is picked knows they have to do well as there are guys on the bench ready and able to come on in their place."

Next three matches: February 13 Sittingbourne (h), 16 Burgess Hill Town (a), 18 Crystal Palace (Surrey Senior Cup, h)