Sunday, January 4, 2009 22:11
Another solid, if unspectacular, performance against high flying Tunbridge Wells on Saturday
kept Faversham Town on course for a top five league finish this year. Town manager Justin
Luchford had said prior to the game that it was a test to show just how far the Lilywhites
have progressed this term and with three points, it would appear progress is good.
"I think we have come along way" said the gaffer but was quick to point out that he felt we
have not seen Town at their best over the last couple of weeks. With six points available
and taken in that period, it is job well done.
"I think now we have proved we can compete with the best teams in the league" said Luchford
"Whether we can be as consistent as them is another question that only time will answer. I
am so pleased for the players as they always give 100% for me and I can't ask for anymore
than that. The character we showed yesterday was exceptional and they got what they
deserved."
The main talking point of the game came early in the second half when Wells were reduced to
ten men. The manager saw that as a definate turning point in the game. "I think before that
I would probably have taken a draw" he said "But after the sending off I think it was all
one way traffic, apart from the odd counter attack that the back four and Kevin pretty much
deal with.
"I said to Dane at half time to keep getting at their left back as I felt he was their weak
link and had already fouled Dane numerous times. The lad obviously got fed up of Dane
running at him and in the end got a deserved straight red for kicking him."
WELCOME TO FAVERSHAM.....Town boss Luchford welcomes new signing Dave Botterill to Salters Lane
The back four were praised last week by the gaffer and this week was no exception. Captain
and man of the match Lee Shearer scored the winning goal but the whole defence deserves
credit.
"I think Lee was outstanding today. It was a true captains performance. Ashley was again
superb, but this time Lee really showed his quality and got the winner that was very
fitting.
He deserved the MOM without a doubt. I also thought Shane and Tom worked their
socks off with Souts complimenting them by winning most things in the air. Dane had a good second period andstepped things up. I would say similar to last week, our discipline and
work rate were first class.
"After the horrendous challenge on Kris last week [during an U18's game] I was pleased he
got through the 90 minutes. Jamie and himself keep going and showing me that they are
clearly good enough to play for the First team.
Next weekend sees the first encounter with Holmesdale this year. Early pace setters in the
league, Holmesdale have managed to keep on the pace. This match however is is the first leg
of the League Cup quarter final, a competition that both teams are keen to win.
The gaffer said of the tie "Holmesdale in the Cup probably comes at the right time. We want
to win of course, but this will be another tough encounter. From what I have heard they are
a very good footballing side. So I am expecting them to try and play a bit. So we will have
to work hard.
"I'm not a big fan of this two-legged cup thing, as it's difficult to know what to do. I
don't have much experience in this kind of thing so I will make a couple of calls this week
for some advice of people that have been there and done it.
"The way I look at it, if we win both games we go through don't we, simple as that? Well,
simple I am not so sure against a team that are second in the league."
This past week was an interesting one for the boss off the field when Folkestone Invicta
came a-knocking on the Town door asking about the availability of top scorer Damian Abel.
The Folkestone based striker has rejected a move to the south coast outfit favouring to stay
with the Lilywhites. The squad was also strengthened by the signing of Dave Botterill from
Ryman league outfit Chatham Town.
"Dave Botterill will be in the squad next week" said Luchford. "We left him out this week as
a precaution. He is fine now and can't wait to pull on a white shirt. I am looking forward
to seeing him play, and I think the fans will like him.
"It's been a fantastic week with the results, Dave signing and Damian staying. I told them
in the changing room that this is my squad now. I am confident that if we keep the results
going they will all stay.
"As for next season, I can't tell you. We just have to wait and see. We don't have the
luxury of having players on contract, so it's a bit of a free for all in the summer, but I
will be doing everything possible to keep them all.
"I must have a word about the fans yesterday. They were excellent, that is the most vocal
they have been since I have been there. It was a fantastic day for all concerned and the
increase in revenue was much needed. Thank you to everyone for your support. Please remember
we can't progress without you, we are in this together."
Kick off at Salters Lane is 3.00pm.