DEJECTED Dolphins boss Tommy Killick has realigned his sights on a top four finish after they dropped two more points against Cowes.

In the space of eight days, Poole have slipped from serious championship chasers to almost also-rans after gaining only two points out of nine.

This draw followed a share of the spoils against Moneyfields and a demoralising midweek defeat at Hamworthy United.

Now Dolphins, for so long title contenders, have a battle on their hands not to finish fifth.

Killick, who saw Matt Evans equalise Trefor Smith's late opener for Poole, said: "We have to bounce back because we have two hard games against Wimborne and Vospers next.

"We have to restore a bit of pride in those games, even though second place will be hard for us now.

"They tell me if we finish in the top four it may exempt us from early rounds in the FA Vase next season.

"If nothing else, we have to try and finish in the top four because of that."

Killick, who felt his side had given away a soft goal against Cowes, added: "The title was gone before this game, and it is no disgrace drawing against Cowes.

"Losing to Hamworthy was a hammer blow, that and dropping points to Moneyfields.

"Psychologically, it is quite difficult for us now because every game has been vital, but all of a sudden that feeling has all gone.

"It all feels, not meaningless, but just a hard feeling.

"Every game had something riding on it and everything to play for but we now know there is nothing on the end of it for us."

Poole Town: Harvell, Whitley, Roberts (Saadi 60), I Richardson, Hogan, Holmes, A Culliford, T Smith, Gill, S Richardson, S Smith (Ayres 70). Unused subs: Yelland, Ayley.