Entertaining matches is just what we need at this stage of our preparation, says Justin Luchford

WHITSTABLE TOWN manager Justin Luchford says he is looking forward to Saturday’s opening pre-season match against Ashford United.



Luchford has made some good summer signings and the club are expected to do better than normal in the Ryman League Division One South this season, after finishing fourth-from-bottom last season, comfortably avoiding relegation by 12 points.

Ashford United finished in fifth-place in the inaugural Kent Invicta League last season and have unveiled the signing of prolific striker Stuart Zanone from Rochester United.

Whitstable Town then lock horns with arch-rivals Herne Bay at Belmont Road on Tuesday 17 July (7:45pm) to contest the Bruce Smith Shield.

Herne Bay were promoted into the Ryman League after Simon Halsey’s side clinched the Kent League title last season.  They also reached the semi-finals of the FA Carlsberg Vase but missed out on a day-out at Wembley Stadium in the final after they were defeated by West Auckland Town.

Luchford revealed his plans for both games.

“We have one or two young lads and a couple of trialists who will be playing in these games also every player we have signed this season will feature in both games,” Luchford told www.whitstabletownfc.co.uk.

The former Faversham Town and Horsham boss added: “However, as is always the case this time of the year one or two are still on holiday so it will not be a full squad.

“These two games are all about fitness and getting ready for the month ahead when we are in Ryman League action again.

“Both matches should be very entertaining and just what we need at this stage of our preparation.”

The Ryman League fixtures are expected to be published on Friday.

Visit Whitstable Town’s website: www.whitstabletownfc.co.uk  

Whitstable Town  v Ashford United
Pre-Season Friendly
Saturday 14 July 2012
Kick Off 3:00pm
at The Belmont, Belmont Road, Whitstable, Kent CT5 1QP