Faversham Town manager Justin Luchford looks at the bigger picture

Thursday 09th September 2010

FAVERSHAM TOWN boss Justin Luchford says Saturday’s FA Cup tie on the infamous Fleet Town slope is going to be difficult, writes Stephen McCartney.

The Lilywhites were on the end of a smash-and-grab raid by Whyteleafe during the week, going down to a 1-0 defeat at Church Road - a result that leaves Faversham in eleventh place in the Ryman League Division One South table.

“I’m probably still in a bit of shock in how we’ve lost it,” Luchford admitted, when speaking to www.kentishfootball.co.uk.

“I think they had one shot on target whole game and the goal was absolutely a deflection and an own goal by us. I think we’ve had 20 shots, so bitterly disappointed that we haven’t got a result. However, nothing but praise for the lads how they’ve performed. It was definitely our best performance of the season so far!”

A frustrated Luchford added: “It’s a bit like that sometimes! It’s unfortunate, but it’s football, you sometimes don’t get your rewards, but having said that, the way we played and the way we carried out our duties, we haven’t put the ball away.

“It’s not concerning, but just a bit unfortunate as we had enough chances to win the game by half-time, let alone full-time.”

But five games into their inaugural Ryman League campaign, Luchford is happy with his side, having bagged two wins and a draw.

“I can’t complain!” said Greenwich resident Luchford. “I think had we lost on Tuesday night and not played so well, I might be talking a bit differently.

“I’m pleased, I asked for improvement in every game, that’s all I ask for, last season and this season and to be fair to them we’re getting there.

“If we continue to perform like we did on Tuesday night - it doesn’t matter who we play in this division - we’re going to give them a game.”

Luchford takes his side to Ryman League Division One South rivals Fleet Town in the FA Cup First Qualifying Round on Saturday, and knows what to expect having once previously watched a game at Calthorpe Park.

“We know there’s a slope. We know Fleet are a top six Ryman League side and have been for many years,” said Luchford.

“It’s a big ask for us to go down there to get a result - but we’re buzzing at the moment and we’re looking forward to it.

“We can’t wait for the game. We go into it as underdogs. The pitch will probably play a part during some part of the game. Unfortunately we’re not in the Premier League and we can’t play on a beautiful pitch every week. We’ll just get on with it and we’re looking forward to the game.”

Luchford revealed that left-back Dan Larkin will miss the game as he is “away”, but although FA Cup ties are important as the winners will bank £3,000 from FA prize money, staying at this level is his only priority.

“Everyone loves playing in the FA Cup and we’re no different,” added Luchford, who’s younger brother Dane plays for the first team.

“The money aspect is very important for clubs at this level. Three thousand pounds in the bins will be fantastic.

“I know the players want to win the game, I want to win the game, but as manager of Faversham I have to look at the bigger picture. I have to make sure, come the end of April, we will be playing Ryman football next year. As I said before, win two or three games in the FA Cup and get relegated is not what I’m doing it for.

“We need to stay in the League and be a force in the League. I certainly won’t be resting players in the FA Cup as I will be going for it but I will be looking at the bigger picture, win, lose or draw on Saturday.”

Visit Faversham Town’s website: www.favershamtownfc.co.uk

Fleet Town v Faversham Town

FA Cup (Sponsored by E.ON) First Qualifying Round

Saturday 11th September 2010

Kick Off 3:00pm

At Calthorpe Park, Crookham Road, Fleet, Hampshire GU51 5FA