It’s going to be a tough game for us but it’s a one-off game. We’ve got nothing to lose, says Erith & Belvedere boss John Wilfort

ERITH & BELVEDERE manager John Wilfort says he wants his side to make home advantage count to claim the Macron Southern Counties East Football League Challenge Cup tomorrow.

The Deres play league runners-up Hollands & Blair at Park View Road, although the game is being hosted by Welling United.

Erith & Belvedere have suffered a poor season completing their campaign in the bottom four (sixteenth-place) in the table, having won 10, drawn eight and losing 18.  They did, however, finish a comfortable 18 points clear of Holmesdale, who finished in the sole relegation berth.

“I think it’s been disappointing but when I came in (from Holmesdale) late on, obviously the team had totally dispersed.  I had two players left so I basically had to strip it and start again,” said Wilfort.

“I knew coming in, the league wouldn’t have been the priority, the priority was to target a cup.”

Hollands & Blair start the game as favourites after finishing 12 points behind promoted league champions Greenwich Borough in their first season at this level.

Wilfort said: “It’s going to be a difficult game. We played them during the season and they beat us quite convincingly but in our fairness we had a weak squad of players out, which has been a story of my season since I’ve been here.

“I’m not making excuses, it’s fact! I’ve had so many players out injured, banned or gone to a higher level.

“It’s been difficult but listen it’s going to be a tough game for us but it’s a one-off game. We’ve got nothing to lose. 

“They’re in the same position, the league’s gone, they’ll be hurt because they’ve lost the league. That could go in our favour but it could go against us.”

Wilfort is keen, though, to ensure his players’ make the most of their home comforts at Park View Road.

“I agree, I think it is an advantage yes,” said Wilfort.

“I think Hollands & Blair beat a lot of teams at home at their home ground because they’ve got a way of playing and they’re very good at it and it suits them on their pitch.

“We’re playing on a good pitch, it will suit us the way we play. It is an advantage but listen they’re a good side so I would say it’s an advantage but I’m still not taking it for granted.”

Wilfort is already planning for next season where the club’s small fan base will hope it’s a season of vast improvement.

He said: “Do you know what, I’ll be honest with you. I’ve been planning a few things and spoken to lots of players as you do.  To be honest with you, I’ve been talking to players since last month.

“Of course, you’re planning, my main aim is the cup at the moment so everything’s been put aside and concentrating on tomorrow.”

When asked what lifting the trophy would mean for the club and for himself, Wilfort replied: “I think for the club, every club wants to win something, haven’t won nothing for a little while so for the club’s it’s good.

“Personally for me it will boost my profile and also coming in as a young new manager with not a lot of experience it will be good for me.”

Wilfort revealed that he will be without his captain, Ashley-Paul Robinson, who is suspended.

He was full of praise for the former Crystal Palace footballer who has been a key influence in the dressing room this season.

Erith & Belvedere are not renowned for being big payers and Wilfort quashed rumours that the club have broken the bank to land the 26-year-old.

He said: “Look, I’ve had this question thrown at me so many times.  Ashley’s there because he’s my mate, he’s enjoying his football. 

“Listen, he’s been a plus for us, he’s giving out so much experience for the boys. He’s just all round.  I think he’s been really good. 

“I was quite shocked actually when he came in because it’s such a low level for him to be playing at and I didn’t think he’d cope with it but he’s come in and he’s been brilliant. I can’t fault him.”

Visit Erith & Belvedere’s website:  www.erithbelvederefc.co.uk

Erith & Belvedere  v  Hollands & Blair
Macron Southern Counties East Football League Challenge Cup Final
Bank Holiday Monday 2^nd May 2016
Kick Off 3:00pm
at Park View Road, Welling, Kent DA16 1SY