I want to maintain the momentum we've had in the last couple of season's - Faversham boss Ray Turner

FAVERSHAM TOWN boss Ray Turner has unveiled his first two signings of the summer by snapping up two midfielders from local clubs, writes Stephen McCartney.


The Lilywhites completed their first campaign as the highest placed Kent side in the Ryman League Division One South table after finishing in eighth place – only four points adrift of the play-off places.

Michael Yianni, 27, arrives from league rivals Whitstable Town, having also played for Ramsgate, Folkestone Invicta and Hythe Town.

Playmaker Darren Marsden, 24, who was one of the most gifted players in the Kent League, has arrived from Herne Bay.

Herne Bay finished runners-up to promoted Hythe Town on goal-difference last season, but they won the Kent League Cup Final, with a win over Scott Porter’s glorious side.

Marsden spent last summer on trial at Blue Square Bet South side Welling United, and has previously played Ryman Premier League football for Margate.

Turner, who took over from Justin Luchford towards the end of last season, said: “From my point of new I just wanted to add quality to what I already consider to be a good squad of players.

“I want to maintain the momentum the club has had in the last couple of seasons and these two players fit the bill in terms of their ambition levels.

“I believe it will be a real challenge to try and replicate what we achieved together in our first season in the Ryman South. 

“We are very close to forming the squad we need for the season.”

Faversham’s assistant manager Clive Walker, 65, who has previously managed Northampton Town, Maidstone United, Chatham Town, Dover Athletic and Ashford Town, added: “They are good experienced players at this level and should improve the squad for the coming season and compliment the squad we have.”

Meanwhile, Faversham Town have confirmed their first pre-season friendly, when  Blue Square Bet South side Dover Athletic visit Salters Lane on Saturday 9 July 2011.

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