Tommy Sampson guest of honour at FA Cup clash between Herne Bay and Deal Town

LENGENDARY manager Tommy Sampson says he will be sitting on the fence during Saturday’s mouth-watering FA Cup Preliminary Round clash between Herne Bay and Deal Town at Winch’s Field, writes Stephen McCartney.


Sampson has accepted an invitation to be guest of honour at the game, and both Kent League club’s have a special place in his heart.

Sampson guided Herne Bay to a domestic Kent League, Kent League Cup and Kent Senior Trophy treble in 1997 – the only manager to do so in the Kent League’s history – and led Deal Town to FA Vase glory at Wembley Stadium two years later.

The much-liked Sampson, will be introduced to both teams before kick-off and will be contributing a page to the match day programme.

“It goes without saying that I am delighted to be watching two of the clubs that have played a huge part in my career,” said Sampson in his notes.

“In the darkest days of my illness, memories of Wembley and that fantastic treble year of 1996-97 have kept me sane.

“During my two spells with these two great clubs I was lucky enough to work alongside some great people such as Roy Smith, my chairman at Deal Town, and similarly John Bathurst, here at Winch’s Field.  I also made many friends at both clubs.”

When asked which club he will be supporting, Sampson replied, “I’m afraid sitting on the fence is the best I can do.  Both Derek (Hares) and Simon (Halsey, the managers of Deal Town and Herne Bay respectively) are good friends of mine and choosing one over the other is not an option.

“All I can hope for is a great game and the right result!”.”

Deal Town director, Phillip Moore, said: “Saturday’s clash was always going to be a special event, with both teams desperate to progress in the most prestigious tournament in world football, but the directors of both clubs thought it was apt that the occasion be marked by this invitation, which Tommy has gladly accepted.

“Tommy is looking forward to meeting friends old and new on Saturday at the game.”

Visit Herne Bay’s website: www.hernebayfc.net

Visit Deal Town’s website: www.dealtownfc.co.uk  

Herne Bay  v  Deal Town
FA Cup with Budweiser Preliminary Round
Saturday 3^rd September 2011
Kick Off 3:00pm
At Winch’s Field, Stanley Gardens, Herne Bay, Kent CT6 5SJ