Match Preview

BIG MATCH PREVIEW FROM RICHARD J GREEN

CRAY VALLEY (PM) v FAVERSHAM TOWN
6 OCT 2020
PITCHING IN ISTHMIAN LEAGUE – SOUTH EAST DIVISION

It’s 7th v 6th in the fledgling league table as two sides who had outstanding away wins on Saturday clash at The Artic Stadium.
Few could have forecast The Millers crushing of Southern League Premier South side Harrow Borough in the Emirates FA Cup on Saturday – Valley’s outstanding second half display seeing them run our victors by 5-1 in North West London.
The Lilywhites meanwhile had more local matters on their mind – a 3-0 League victory at Sittingbourne being no less impressive as James Collins’ side continued an excellent start to the season.
With both sides having drawn 0-0 with title favourites Hastings United in their respective opening League games, confidence should be high, although Faversham were dismantled 5-0 at Carshalton Athletic in an earlier FA Cup 1st qualifying round encounter.
After languishing towards the lower end of the table when last season was terminated, Collins has been on an extensive recruitment drive, including recent returns for “legendary defender” Matt Bourne, and goalscoring midfielder Sam Bewick, while highly rated Maidstone United academy captain Cameron Williams adds youth to the squad. Two signings from Chatham Town, left sided player Jamie Spiers and a return for winger Michael Hagan are an indication that The Lilywhites will be keen to compete in the upper reaches of the table this season.
The hosts will need to ensure their minds and feet are firmly grounded following the FA Cup success if they are to continue their own exciting form.

LAST SEASON
19 Oct 2019 Isthmian League SE Cray Valley (PM) 2 Faversham Town 0
Mfula 2
18 Jan 2020 Isthmian League SE Faversham Town 0 Cray Valley (PM) 0

Kick-off at The Artic Stadium is at 7.45pm
Admission £10, £5 for concessions, Under 11’s FREE
Payment by card is preferable – If paying by cash, please have the correct change available

Spectators are advised that you are now required to check in on each visit to The Artic Stadium, using the “NHS Covid-19” app - available from your app store.
From the app, scan the official “NHS QR code” at stadium entry points to complete your check.