Playing away at Sheppey is never an easy game but we’ll set-up in a way that we feel gives us the best chance on the day, says Tunbridge Wells boss Richard Styles

TUNBRIDGE WELLS manager Richard Styles says he is happy with his squad ahead of their opening game of the new season.

The Wells travel to Sheppey United on the opening day of the Southern Counties East Football League Premier Division tomorrow.

Styles has left Lordswood to take charge of Tunbridge Wells, whom finished in the bottom five last season, while Ernie Batten’s Ites had to settle for a top seven finish.

“We’re all looking forward to getting going on Saturday away at Sheppey,” said Styles, on the eve of their trip to Holm Park.

“We’ve had a good five or six week spell together as a new team and we’re ready to get into the competitive stuff now.

“I’m happy with my squad, we have a real good mix of youth and experience that is balanced well.

“Playing away at Sheppey is never an easy game but we’ll set-up in a way that we feel gives us the best chance on the day.

“The first league games across the board are always funny ones because it’s a blank canvas and everyone is starting at the same level.

“The League this year, once again, will be very strong and very competitive with every team capable of beating anyone on their day.

“Added to this, I think the new Sin Bin rule will be very interesting and may take some adapting for some teams.”

Tunbridge Wells have had to settle for bottom half finishes for their past four seasons and Styles is looking for vast improvement in his first season in charge at Culverden Stadium.

Styles said: “In terms of us, we’re looking to make a progression on last season and come the end of the last game, be in a position which is respectable and shows progress on the last few finishing positions.”

Visit Tunbridge Wells’ website: www.tunbridgewellsfc.com

Sheppey United  v  Tunbridge Wells
Southern Counties East Football League Premier Division
Saturday 3 August 2019
Kick Off 3:00pm
at Holm Park, Queenborough Road, Halfway, Sheerness, Kent ME12 3DB