I'm expecting a tough game against Rochester, says Vickers boss Ricky Bennett

VCD ATHLETIC boss Ricky Bennett says he wants his side to bounce back from their heartbreaking FA Cup exit when they welcome newly-promoted side Rochester United to Oakwood next Saturday.



The Crayford based side were profligate in front of goal and paid the price when Horsham grabbed a 1-0 win in the First Qualifying Round on Saturday.

The Ryman League Division One South side snatched victory on the counter attack when Billy Medlock side-footed home from close range with 25 minutes left.

Vickers sit in third-place in the Kent League table with four wins and a draw  from their six league games.

Rochester United, who won the Kent Invicta League as Bly Spartans last season, are in ninth-place, with a 50% record from their first six league games at this level.

Bennett said: “By all accounts there decent, they look to play football.  I haven’t seen them myself but they look to play. 

“They’ve got that threat with (Stuart) Zanone so it will be a difficult game.

“I think they’ve come into the league and quickly seen what it’s all about so I’m expecting a tough game.”

Bennett then takes his side to Culverden Stadium to lock horns with Tunbridge Wells on 22 September.

“We always have close games with Tunbridge Wells,” added Bennett.

“They haven’t started too great in the league but I’m sure they can turn that round and we have to be on our mettle to win the game.”

Bennett was disappointed that Tunbridge Wells teenage striker, Jack Harris, turned down a move to Oakwood following a seven day approach.

Harris has already created the attention from Conference South side Welling United and Ryman League Division One South new boys Herne Bay.

Bennett said: “I spoke to Jack last week and yes, he turned me down, which is his prerogative.

“I’m disappointed because I feel he’s a player who would finish off what we have got here.  He’s young, looking to go on and I’m sure I could have helped him get on, but there you go.” 

Visit VCD Athletic’s website: www.vcdathletic.co.uk  

VCD Athletic  v  Rochester United
Kent Hurlimann Football League
Saturday 15^th September 2012
Kick Off 3:00pm
at Oakwood, Old Road, Crayford, Kent DA1 4DN