Kentish Football 
I would forever regret not taking the opportunity I have now, admits Ian Pulman
Wednesday 08th June 2011
STRIKER Ian Pulman has explained why he has left Whitstable Town to sign a one-year contract with Eastbourne Borough. The east Sussex side were relegated from the Blue Square Bet Premier last season and will be plying their trade in Blue Square Bet South next season – but have swooped to sign Pulman, who scored 26 goals for Ryman League Division One South side Whitstable Town last season.
The former Chelsea youngster, went on loan to Eastbourne Borough on loan from then Conference side Margate during the 2003-04 and scored four goals in sixteen appearances for the then Southern League club.
Pulman has also played professional football in Australia for the Melbourne Knights and will be sorely missed by everybody at Belmont Road, especially as many of Whitstable’s league rivals were vying for his signature.
Pulman, 26, told www.whitstabletownfc.co.uk why he has opted to leave The Belmont to pen a one-year deal with the highest ranked of Eastbourne’s three football clubs.
“I told Peter (Nott) that I was only interested in playing in the Ryman League for Whitstable as I have so enjoyed my time at the Belmont,” said the Thanet based goal getter.
“I think that the number of goals I have scored since I have been at the club shows just how happy I have been and if this offer had not come along then I would have been playing at Whitstable next season and aiming for the play-offs.
“I believe with the manager and the players at the club (Whitstable), the set up behind the scenes, the fans, everything tells me we can play at a higher level.
“But - and it’s a big chance for me to play at the best level that I can - and I would forever regret not taking the opportunity that I have now.
“I shall leave with very fond memories of my time at Whitstable as everyone has always made me feel so welcome during my time at the club.”
Whitstable Town boss Peter Nott, who was speaking from his holiday abroad, now begins the search for a suitable replacement.
“He is a good lad and I wish him all the best after his decision to ply his trade at a higher level,” said the former Maidstone United boss.
“He scored some important goals for us and I am sure he will do well at Eastbourne Borough.”
Nott, who has already snapped up 19-goal striker Keelan Mooney from Kent League side Tunbridge Wells, says he has someone in mind to come in as Pulman’s replacement.
“I was well aware that there was a lot of interest in Ian and plans are in place for a replacement if Ian moved on,” admitted Nott.
“I have a front man lined up but will not be releasing any details just yet. I am back from holiday soon and will be speaking to another couple of players so will have more news next week.”
Chairman Joe Brownett, meanwhile, paid tribute to likeable figure Pulman.
“Ian is a good lad to have around and we all wish him the very best in the future,” he said.
“He was top scorer last season with 26 goals and that’s with us spending a long time at the wrong end of the table.
“So good luck Ian from all at the club but as always we move on and look forward to the new season and I am sure that Peter will put a team out at The Belmont which the club and the supporters can be proud of.”
Quotes courtesy of Tony Rouse – www.whitstabletownfc.co.uk
Red Dragon I.T. Ltd