We're not the finished article, says table-topping Robbins

TUNBRIDGE WELLS climbed to the summit of the Bulmers Cider Kent League table tonight, courtesy of Joe Fuller’s decisive second half goal at Croydon, writes Stephen McCartney.

Mike Robbins’ side maintained their 100% league record to leapfrog over Holmesdale and Hythe Town, to head the table after five games.

Robbins, speaking to www.kentishfootball.co.uk on his way home from Croydon Sports Arena, was delighted with the result.

“We did exactly what we needed to do,” he said. “We needed to keep a clean sheet and make chances going forward and for face value we won, we’re top and we’re up there.”

Robbins expects recently installed Croydon boss Mark Tompkins to stamp his authority at the Croydon Sports Arena.

“I will say Croydon are the best team we’ve faced this season and I expect Tommo to make a couple of new signings,” said Robbins.

“They’re a good side now and when he signs a few new players they will be an even better side.”

Despite sealing top spot tonight, Tunbridge Wells are without a game at the weekend, but Robbins will be preparing his side for their FA Carlsberg Vase second qualifying round showdown at Faversham Town in ten days time - a game being covered by www.kentishfootball.co.uk.

“It’s a nice time to go and re-group,” said Robbins. “We can sit back and prepare for the big Vase game at Faversham.

“We beat them at home last week with a ninety minute display and they will obviously want to do us up there - that will probably be our hardest game of the season next week.”

But Robbins played down any chances of the Kent League title arriving at Culverden Stadium for the first time since 1985.

“I think that would be a little premature to think light that.  It doesn’t need to go too fast,” said Robbins.

“The natural progression from last season would be to finish in the top six.

“At the moment that league is wide open. I don’t think we’ll win it. We’re not the finished article by any means.

“What we are is a hard working side that works for ninety minutes. We’re nowhere near the finished article.

“I think the top three will be Herne Bay, Hythe and Erith & Belvedere.”

Visit Tunbridge Wells’ website: www.tunbridgewellsfc.co.uk