Kentish Football 
We now look forward to a massive challenge, says Faversham's new manager Ray Turner
Wednesday 20th April 2011
FAVERSHAM TOWN confirmed yesterday that Ray Turner has been appointed as the club’s first team manager and director of football, writes Stephen McCartney.
Turner will be assisted by Clive Walker, who has been appointed assistant manager and head coach.
Following the resignation of Justin Luchford the duo, who both worked as part of Luchford’s management team, were initially installed on a caretaker basis until the end of the season.
But The Lilywhites are unbeaten in three games since Luchford departed Salters Lane, as Turner and Walker secured a 2-2 draw at home to Fleet Town in their first game, before single-goal victories over Horsham YMCA and Whyteleafe followed.
A club statement said: “Following a management board meeting last week, the club’s board made the decision to formally appoint Ray Turner and Clive Walker now to give the new management team adequate time to prepare for next season’s Ryman League campaign.”
Last season’s Kent League and Kent Senior Trophy winners have adapted to life in their inaugural Ryman League Division One South campaign and with three games to go sit in ninth place with a record of 13 wins, 16 draws and 10 defeats and are only five points adrift of wobbling fifth-placed side Burgess Hill Town.
Walton & Hersham, Dulwich Hamlet, Ramsgate and Faversham Town still have feint chances of grabbing that final play-off berth, as Burgess Hill have lost their last three games.
Turner, who was speaking to www.favershamtownfc.co.uk, said: “The team have shown great character over the last couple of weeks, that is what we asked of them, and they have earned two wins by sticking together as a squad and, I think, learnt a lot about each other and how much they can achieve collectively.
Turner - a firefighter - takes his side to high-flying Metropolitan Police on Saturday.
The East Molesey outfit lie in second place in the Ryman League Division One South table and are only a couple of points behind Bognor Regis Town.
Turner said: “We now look forward to a massive challenge on Saturday when we travel to title hopefuls Met Police.
“I think they are probably the most complete side in the league, strong in all departments and have a lot of know how and experience at this level.
“We will approach the game in a positive way. I think it represents another great learning opportunity for our young players. We must execute a game plan without fear, express ourselves and embrace the challenge.”
Speaking about team personnel, Turner goes into the last three games with injury concerns.
“Tom Hickman is now out for around three months due to a mountain bike accident in the week,” he revealed.
“He has suffered a broken collar bone and a dislocated shoulder. I am hopeful he will be back in time for pre-season.
“Matt Bourne is progressing but will miss the remainder of the season. Ashley Brown was close last Saturday and we are hopeful he may be available for Met Police. Sam Gore is still nursing a reaction to games so we will see how he feels after Saturday.”
Turner, meanwhile, has welcomed Michael Dodsworth back with open arms.
“Michael has returned to the club and played in the heart of the defence last Saturday. He wanted to come back and help the club out and his energy and enthusiasm and ability to motivate was clear to see.
“His influence will be a very positive one in the changing room and I am delighted to welcome him back for the remainder of the season.”
Quotes courtesy of Tony Gray - www.favershamtownfc.co.uk
Metropolitan Police v Faversham Town
Ryman League Division One South
Easter Saturday, 23 April 2011
Kick Off 3:00pm
At Ember Court Sports Club, Ember Lane, East Molesey, Surrey KT8 0BT
Red Dragon I.T. Ltd