Spitfires' skipper Rob Key believes his side had the right game plan for the conditions and a shortened, eight-over match after Kent's 25-run demolition of previously unbeaten Middlesex at Beckenham on Friday night.

The victory moves Key's men to within two points of the Southern Division leaders and means that they could move level with Crusaders should they beat Essex on Sunday and other results go their way.

Speaking after the eight-over thrash, captain Key said: "It can become a bit of a lottery playing a game over eight overs, but for us to go into the final over with them still needing 35 makes it a proper win in my view.

"They had a few injuries and were a little under strength, but it was good for us to get the shackles off and play some shots on another fantastic wicket here.

"James Tredwell, Simon Cok and Azhar Mahmood bowled brilliantly and I felt we found the right formula and I hope we can continue this way."

Looking ahead to Sunday's clash with the Eagles back at Worsley Bridge Road from 3pm, Key added: "We've got ourselves in a position, after those defeats at The Rose Bowl and Chelmsford, that we have must win games at home and Sunday's one here in Beckenham against Essex is one of them.

"We fancy our chances against anyone, but this game is all about certain players coming off at the right times and the sooner they do that they grow in confidence.

"We're now starting to see the likes of Justin Kemp and Azhar hit the ball out of the park and that will lift their confidence and that of the side.

"Little things like 'Kempy' hitting a couple of sixes in an over may just be the turning point and we could well see that we're now hitting form just at the right time."

Some 4,000 tickets have been sold in advance for Sunday's game but tickets will be available at the gate.