We are away to Herne Bay tonight which is difficult trip midweek, getting players there from work etc but hopefully we can deliver a good performance, says Phoenix Sports boss Paul Bryon

PHOENIX SPORTS manager Paul Bryon says he has the strength in depth to cope with a congested opening part of the Isthmian League South East Division campaign.

Bryon’s men opened their campaign with a 2-1 home defeat to Ashford United, whom under Tommy Warrilow reached the play-off final at the end of last season, before losing 2-1 in extra time to Horsham.

“We have been handed a hard start to the season with three of the first two league games against teams in the top six last season.  However, you never really know where you are until six or seven games into the season,” said Bryon.

“We have been happy with pre-season and were confident going into Saturday’s game.

“The way the game went we were disappointed with the result. We believed we created enough chances and situations to get something from the game.

“We knew it would be tough against Ashford but other than a couple of situations I was happy with the overall performance.

“We had a three players out but the squad is deeper this year and everyone who contributed gave it everything.

“I am little confused as to why we kicked off a week later this year but then have five games in 14 days does not make any sense to me, but I am sure there is a good reason.

“We will need all of our squad as those five games turn into 17 in two and a half months so it’s going to be a testing time but all clubs are in the same boat.”

Phoenix Sports are fourth-from-bottom in the league standings after just one outing and they travel to ninth-placed Herne Bay tonight.

Ben Smith’s side came away from Whyteleafe with a point in a 2-2 draw at Church Road at the weekend.

“We are away to Herne Bay tonight which is difficult trip midweek, getting players there from work etc but it is what is and hopefully we can deliver a good performance,” added Bryon.

“That is main focus if we deliver good performances the points will come.

“We know Herne Bay will be stronger this season because they have made some good signings and again we will have to be at our best to get anything from the game.”

Phoenix Sports hold home advantage over AFC Croydon Athletic in The FA Cup Preliminary Round on Saturday (15:00).

“We obviously have a massive game Saturday as well in the FA Cup, which is very important to us and the club as a whole, so lots to look forward to,” said Bryon.

“We are all just pleased it has started and we can get cracking and get stuck into what looks a very tough league, this is what you want in football good competition and challenges, it makes it's lot more exciting and interesting for all concerned.”

Visit Phoenix Sports’ website:  www.phoenixsportsclub.co.uk

Herne Bay  v  Phoenix Sports
Isthmian League South East Division
Tuesday 20 August 2019
Kick Off 7:45pm
at Winch’s Field, Stanley Gardens, Herne Bay, Kent CT6 5SG