9thJune04

Sittingbourne keep their Southern League status

SITTINGBOURNE, who were expecting to play Isthmian (Ryman) League Division One football next season, have kept their Southern League status after all, writes Stephen McCartney.

Southern League secretary Denis Strudwick has confirmed Sittingbourne are to take the place of Southall Town, as the West Londoners' aren't taking up their place in the competition.

Therefore, the Brickies will no longer line up in the Isthmian League next season, but will play in the Southern League Division One East once the season gets underway in August.

This has given a reprieve to Fleet Town, who have escaped the drop, and will play in the Isthmian League instead of the Kent side.

As Sittingbourne look forward to the prospect of paying Dartford tolls to get to their away matches, they do keep their Kent Southern League derbies against Chatham Town, Dartford, Erith & Belvedere and Fisher Athletic, although Ashford Town will be playing in the Isthmian League Division One next term.