THE BOSTIK LEAGUE SOUTH AWAY FANS GUIDE 2017/18
Contents
THE BOSTIK LEAGUE SOUTH AWAY FANS GUIDE 2017/18 ...... 1 Ashford United Football Club “The Nuts & Bolts” ...... 3 Carshalton Athletic Football Club – “The Robins” ...... 5 Chipstead Football Club – “The Chips” ...... 7 Corinthian Casuals Football Club – “The Casuals” ...... 9 Cray Wanderers Football Club – “The Wands” ...... 11 East Grinstead Town Football Club – “The Wasps” ...... 13 Faversham Town Football Club – “The Lilywhites” ...... 15 Greenwich Borough Football Club – “Boro” ...... 17 Guernsey Football Club – “The Green Lions” ...... 19 Hastings United Football Club – “The Arrows” ...... 21 Herne Bay Football Club – “The Bay” ...... 24 Horsham Football Club – “The Hornets” ...... 26 Hythe Town Football Club – “The Cannons” ...... 28 Molesey Football Club – “The Moles” ...... 30 Phoenix Sports Football Club – “Phoenix” ...... 32 Ramsgate Football Club – “The Rams” ...... 34 Shoreham Football Club – “The Musselmen” ...... 36 Sittingbourne Football Club – “The Brickies” ...... 38 South Park Football Club – “The Sparks ...... 40 Thamesmead Town Football Club – “The Mead” ...... 42 VCD Athletic Football Club – “The Vickers” ...... 44 Walton Casuals Football Club – “The Stags” ...... 46 Whyteleafe Football Club – “The Leafe” ...... 48 2017/18 Fixtures ...... 50
Ashford United Football Club “The Nuts & Bolts”
The Homeland Stadium Ashford Road Kingsnorth Ashford Kent TN26 1NJ
Tel: 01233 611838 Web: www.ashfordunitedfc.com Twitter: @AshfordUnitedFc
About Ashford United Football Club Founded – 2011 as Ashford United FC, previously Ashford Town (formed 1891) Manager – Danny Lye Best league position – 19th in the Southern League Premier Division in 1996/97 Best FA Cup run – Second Round on numerous occasions as Ashford Town, the last being in 1996 when they faced Fulham at Homelands Ground Capacity – 3,200 (last season’s average was 265)
How was last season? For the most part, it was a two-horse race for promotion to the Isthmian League South last season with Ashford United and Crowborough Athletic almost inseparable all season. Ultimately, United won the title in April with a 3-1 win in their final head-to-head game although they still had to win their final game against Rochester United to make sure, which they did in emphatic style by scoring seven. Scoring goals was certainly the key to their success as they averaged nearly three a game, whilst keeping it relatively tight at the other end. They dropped just eight points at The Homelands as visiting teams struggled with the pitch and the attacking style of play. The club have lost the services of captain Stuart West, Ryan Palmer and full-back George Savage in the summer. Coming in is Tom Michelsen from Chatham Town, Tyrell Richardson-Brown from Burgess Hill Town and Matt Day from Millwall.
Southern Counties East Premier Division – 1st - P 38 W 30 D 2 L 6 GS 119 GA 39 GD +80 PTS 92
• FA Cup – 1st Qualifying Round – lost away to Burgess Hill Town 2-1 • FA Vase – Second Round – lost away to Eastbourne Town 2-1 • Kent Senior Trophy – Runners-up – Lost to Sheppey United in the final on penalties
When did we last meet Ashford United? We’ve never met Ashford United in a competitive game before – we’ve played Ashford Town back in 2001 but that was the Middlesex variety not the Kent one.
About The Homeland Stadium Ashford United moved to the Homeland Stadium in 1989 after a two-year ground share with Folkestone Invicta. The club have had various tenants over the years including Maidstone United, Margate and Canterbury City but now they have sole use of the facilities and the 3G pitch. The ground is dominated by one main stand that sits above pitch level and offers good views of the action. Inside are numerous facilities including a spacious bar. The rest of the ground is hard standing and little cover. Be warned, it always seems to rain in Ashford.
How to get to The Homelands Stadium It may say Ashford on the sign but The Homelands is a fair trek outside of the town centre. By car you will almost certainly end up on the M20 heading coast-wards. Exit at junction 10 following signs for Ashford and the Outlet Centre. At the junction with the A2042 turn left at the roundabout and follow the road past Tesco Extra, over the roundabout and after a mile or so you will see the entrance to the ground on your left-hand side. There’s plenty of free parking at the ground. Total distance from Lewes is 48 miles via the cross-country route on the A265 across the Weald or 81 via the Motorways. Both should take around 90 minutes.
By train the nearest station is Ashford International which is around 3 miles from the ground and will require a taxi or bus number 11A from Stop R at the station to Smithfields Crossroads and then a half-mile walk.
Admission at The Homelands Stadium Admission this season is £9 for adults, £6 for concessions (senior citizens and students), and accompanied under 16s are admitted free with an adult, £1 if they are on their own.
Fancy a beer? There’s few pubs in and around Kingsnorth apart from the Queens Head on the way to the ground so you will be better staying in the town centre. The Riverside Inn in Torrington Road is highly recommended for its beer as too is the Locomotive which is quite close to the station.
Carshalton Athletic Football Club – “The Robins”
War Memorial Sports Ground Colston Avenue Carshalton Surrey SM5 2PR
Tel: 020 8642 2551 Web: www.pitchero.com/clubs/carshaltonafc Twitter: @CarshaltonA_FC
About Carshalton Athletic Football Club Founded – 1905 Manager – Peter Adeniyi Best league position – 19th in National League South in 2004/05 Best FA Cup run – Second Round - Lost away to Torquay United 4-1 in 1982/83 Ground Capacity – 5,000 (last season’s average 261)
How was last season? Carshalton enjoyed a consistent season, improving on the previous season’s 10th place finish and scored goals for fun. They led the table early in the season but fell away around Christmas time. They started to put pressure on the play-off pack towards the end of the season, but a 3-point penalty for fielding an illegible player cost them a place in the end. Their main threat came from the boot of Tommy Bradford and Ricky Korboa, which player-manager Peter Adeniye rolled-back the years and was rightly included in the Isthmian League South team of the season. He has added goal- scoring midfielder Jordan Cheadle from Walton Casuals, Raheem Sterling-Parker from Chipstead and Corinthian-Casuals Danny Dudley to his squad so far.
Isthmian League South Division – 6th - P 46 W 24 D 9 L 14 GS 106 GA 69 GD +37 PTS 81
• FA Cup – 1st Qualifying Round – lost at home to Worthing 6-2 in a replay • FA Trophy – Preliminary Round – lost away to Cray Wanderers 3-0 in a replay • Surrey Senior Cup – Second Round – Lost at home to Tooting & Mitcham United 2-0 • Isthmian League Cup – Second Round – Lost away to South Park 2-1
When did we last meet Carshalton Athletic? Last season we were beaten twice by the Robins. In September, they came to The Dripping Pan in fine form and beat us 2-1 thanks to goals from Ricky Korboa and Tommy Bradford, whilst Jamie Brotherton scored from the spot for the Rooks. In the return fixture in April, Lewes suffered an injury-time defeat, going down 4-3 having led 3-2 thanks to goals from Jonte Smith, Alex Malins and Stephen Okoh as the game went into 7 minutes of injury time. Alas, the officials deemed that that wasn’t enough and in the 11th minute of time added on, the home side scored the winner to effectively end The Rooks chances of reaching the Play-offs.
About War Memorial Sports Ground The War Memorial Sports Ground is one of the best grounds in the Isthmian League, the ground started life as plain old Shorts Farm back in the 1920’s. The first part to be developed was the grandstand, originally bought and transported piece by piece from Epsom Racecourse down the road. In 1968, gale-force winds battered this stand so much that it had to be demolished. Today the main feature is the huge covered terrace that runs down the side of the pitch, allowing ample room for thousands of fans even if it is more likely today to only house a few dozen.
In addition, the ground boasts a good sized, if small in length, grandstand and plenty of standing room down the side of the pitch. Behind the north end is a small cover whilst at the south end the cover extends across the full length of the terrace. The club claim to serve the “Best Burger in English Football” from the new eatery in the corner of the pitch, next door to the club shop, both allowing you to watch the action whilst waiting to be served.
How to get to The War Memorial Sports Ground Carshalton is not the easiest place to get to from anywhere else apart from South London by car especially if you have to travel through Croydon which can be blocked by shoppers on a Saturday, and commuters in midweek. If you are coming from the south via the M25 then take exit 7 signposted Croydon and follow the A23 past the old Croydon airport before taking a left after a few miles onto the A232.
Follow this road for a couple of miles, passing Beddington Park on your right before you enter Carshalton. Pass through the High Street, passing the two large ponds on your right and take the next right into West Street. Pass the Racecourse and Hope pubs on this road and then immediately after you pass under the railway bridge take a left into Colston Avenue. The entrance to the ground is down a small alley about 150 yards on your right. This is a busy and narrow road so I would avoid parking down here – there is a car park at the ground or park on West Street or Colston Avenue. Journey time for the 48-mile trip is just over an hour.
Carshalton is in Zone 5. The station is only a few minutes’ walk from the ground – take a right out of the exit and walk down the hill. Turn right, walk under the railway bridge and then left into Colston Avenue – ground is 150 yards on your right. Journey time from Lewes is 1 hour 50 mins if going via Victoria or 20 minutes less if you change at East Croydon and Mitcham Junction. Off-Peak returns cost around £20.
Admission at War Memorial Sports Ground Admission this season is £10 for adults, £6 for concessions (senior citizens and students), and accompanied under 18s are £3.
Fancy a beer? Whilst relatively small in size, Carshalton has a few decent pubs within a stone’s throw of the ground. On West Street (take a left out of the station) there is the Greyhound and The Hope which was certainly a favourite with the Lewes travelling support last season, whilst in The High Street there is the Woodman, Coach and Horses and Fox and Hounds – all of which are worth a visit. There is a decent sized bar at the ground and beer can be taken outside whilst the game is on.
Chipstead Football Club – “The Chips”
High Road Chipstead Surrey CR5 3SF
Tel: 01737 553250 Web: www.chipsteadfc.com Twitter: @Chipstead_FC
About Chipstead Football Club Founded – 1906 Manager – Antony Williams Best league position – 10th in Isthmian League South in 2010/11 Best FA Cup run – Fourth Qualifying Round – Lost to Torquay United away 4-0 in 2007/08 Ground Capacity – 2,000 (last season’s average 79)
How was last season? Chipstead once again did just enough to avoid being sucked into a relegation battle although they rarely upset the form books, apart from a 2-1 win away at Greenwich Borough. Top scorer Raheem Stirling-Parker was a threat although they will have to do without his services this season as he has left for Carshalton Athletic.
Isthmian League South Division – 20th - P 46 W 11 D 8 L 27 GS 68 GA 99 GD -31 PTS 41
• FA Cup – 1st Qualifying Round – lost away to Slough Town 6-0 • FA Trophy – Preliminary Round – lost away to Kempston Rovers 2-0 in a replay • Surrey Senior Cup – Second Round – Lost away to Epsom & Ewell 3-0 • Isthmian League Cup – First Round – Lost at home to South Park 2-1
When did we last meet Chipstead? The Rooks did the double over Chipstead last season, beating them 2-1 on the opening day of the season thanks to second-half goals from Dan Perry (penalty) and James Hammond. In the reverse fixture at The Pan, two goals from Stephen Okoh saw off any threat from Chipstead.
About High Road Chipstead’s High Road ground is rural. Not just “surrounded by a few trees” rural but one where you can literally hear cows mooing and sheep baahing. It is a far trek out into the countryside but that gives it an almost surreal feeling watching a game here. The good news is that it is very picturesque. The bad news is that it can get damn chilly in the winter!
The ground is basic. One small four row stand that covers a third of the touchline and then a small cover over one part of the end behind the goal and that is it with concrete paths around the rest of the ground. The club does have a nice clubhouse, accessed through the entrance by the main turnstiles. Huge Sky Sports screen and decent beer plus a view of the action from inside. Food wise there is a small hatch behind the main stand but be warned - Frankfurters are not from Frankfurt. Hamburgers not from Hamburg. Port is not from Port Vale and Chips cannot be found on the menu Chipstead (well, not on our last visit anyway). How to get to High Road By car you probably come via the A23 (either from junction 7 on the M25 heading north on the M23 which soon becomes the A23, or south from Croydon on the A23). Follow A23 towards Coulsdon and take the Coulsdon bypass signposted M23 and Gatwick. At the second set of lights after leaving the by bypass turn right into Star Lane – there is a BP garage on the corner. Follow Star Lane into Elmore Road, keeping the church and the green on your left until reaching the crossroads with High Road. Turn left (signposted Lower Kingswood & Reigate) and parking for away supporters is 200 yards on your left. To walk to the ground leave via the car park entrance turn left and the clubhouse and turnstiles are a further 200 yards along the main road. Journey time for the 42 miles from Lewes on a good day is 45 minutes.
The car is king in getting to Chipstead. There is a station in the village but it is around 1 1/2 miles away and is a walk uphill all the way along country roads without pavements. Coulsdon South where you can get a cab relatively easily and it will cost about £5. Journey time, with a change at East Croydon, is around 90 minutes at an Off-Peak Day Return is £21.50.
Admission at High Road Admission this season is £9 for adults, £6 for concessions (senior citizens, students and Under18s), and accompanied under 16s are £3.
Fancy a beer? Chipstead is a village so don’t expect a lot of choice once you arrive, with the nearest pub to the ground, the Ramblers Rest in Outwood Lane being around a mile away from the ground. Close by that one is the Midday Sun. The only other real option in Chipstead is The White Hart in Hazelwood Lane. May be one away trip to stick to the clubhouse at the ground or heading to the bright lights of Croydon on the way home.
Corinthian Casuals Football Club – “The Casuals”
King George’s Field Queen Mary Close Hook Rise South Surbiton Surrey KT6 7NA
Tel: 0208 397 3368 Web: www.corinthian-casuals.com Twitter: @CorinthianCas
About Corinthian Casuals Football Club Founded – 1939 Manager – James Bracken Best league position – 5th in Isthmian League Division One in 1959-60 Best FA Cup run – First Round – Lost at home to Bristol City Torquay United 4-0 after a replay in 1983/84 and lost at Watford 5-1 in 1965/66 Ground Capacity – 2,700 (last season’s average 181)
How was last season? After missing out controversially on a play-off spot in 2015/16 (a last day 3-point deduction for fielding an illegible player), they managed to make the final cut last season but lost in the most cruel circumstances in the Play-Off Final, 5-4 on penalties to Dorking Wanderers. Casuals strengthened their defence and improved their attacking options, with hot-shot Shaun Okojie once again stealing the headlines. However, boss James Bracken will have to do without Okojie this season as he has joined Aldershot Town. Another player who has left is Danny Dudley who has joined Carshalton Athletic.
Isthmian League South Division – 4th - P 46 W 29 D 6 L 1 GS 99 GA 59 GD +40 PTS 93
• FA Cup – First Qualifying Round – lost at home to North Leigh 3-2 • FA Trophy – First Qualifying Round – lost away at Chalfont St Peter 3-2 • Surrey Senior Cup – Second Round – Lost away at Egham Town 3-0 • Isthmian League Cup – Third Round – Lost at home to Merstham 5-2
When did we last meet Corinthian Casuals? It was a case of what could have been last season against Casuals. One of our best team performances of the season saw us come away from King George’s Fields with a 2-0 in January thanks to goals from Charlie Coppola and Stephen Okoh but in the reverse fixture at The Pan in April, Casuals ran out 3-2 winners in a thrilling game. Ronnie Conlon brought us back into the game after the visitors had taken a 2-0 lead, then a blatant handball on the line by Casuals Jack Strange was missed by the officials. Hot-shot Shaun Okojie then went up the other end of the pitch in injury time to make it 3-1 only for Jonte Smith headed a late, late goal to make it 3-2.
About King George’s Field Corinthian Casuals ground is a basic affair but certainly homely. There is a small main stand with a few rows of seating and a covered terrace along one side and a covered terrace behind one goal. Apart from that it is hard standing around the pitch. The club house and food van can be found behind the main stand. Trains regularly pass over the top of the main stand which can be a bit off- putting for away players and fans alike.
How to get to King George’s Field The ground is situated just off the A3 not far from the Tolworth roundabout. If you are travelling from the M25 you can join the A3 London-bound at junction 10. Stay on the A3 until you reach the 50mph speed limit, continue under the Hook roundabout and move into the left-hand lane for about 174 yards. Bear left onto Hook Rise North for 0.2 mile (Tolworth Junction). At roundabout, take the FOURTH exit (as if you were going to rejoin the A3 going back towards the way you came signposted M25, Portsmouth) then almost immediately take slip road on left onto Hook Rise South for 0.5 mile.
If you are travelling from London on the A3 take the Tolworth Junction exit. At roundabout, take the second exit (as if you were going to rejoin the A3 going towards M25, Portsmouth) then almost immediately take slip road on left onto Hook Rise South for 0.5 mile.
Turn left into Queen Mary Close. Ground and car park under railway bridge on right hand side. The 55-mile journey should take just over an hour from Lewes.
The ground is situated around a ten-minute walk from Tolworth station which is in Zone 5. Turn left out of the station and walk up to the roundabout where you should turn left again, past where the Toby Jug pub used to be. Walk alongside the slip road into Hook Rise South. Continue down the road until you reach Queen Mary's Close, where you will see a small sign for the club. Walk under the bridge and the ground is on the right. Journey time from Lewes, with a change at Clapham Junction is 1 hour 50 minutes and an Off-Peak Day Return is currently £24.90.
Admission at King George’s Field Admission this season will be £10 for adults, £5 for concessions (senior citizens, students and Under18s), and accompanied under 16s are admitted for £1.
Fancy a beer? This is a tough one – there are literally no pubs within a 10/15-minute walk of the ground so unusually I am going to recommend having a beer or two at Clapham Junction at pubs such as The Falcon (which has England’s longest bar) or The Slug and Lettuce, both within a 2 minute walk of the station.
Cray Wanderers Football Club – “The Wands”
Hayes Lane Stadium Hayes Lane Bromley Kent BR2 9EF
Tel: 020 8460 5291 Web: www.cray-wanderers.com Twitter: @OfficialWands
About Cray Wanderers Football Club Founded – 1860 Manager – Tony Russell Best league position – 9th in Isthmian League Premier Division in 2011 & 2012 Best FA Cup run – Fourth Qualifying Round in 2005/06 – Lost away to Grays Athletic 2-0 Ground Capacity – 6,000 (last season’s average 148)
How was last season? After losing in the Ryman North Play-offs to Harlow Town in 2015/16, Cray got their wish in transferring to the Isthmian League South last season although they found the standard of opposition much higher. Despite scoring an impressive number of goals, including 24 from Danny Hayes then leaked 86 which ultimately meant they finished way-short of the Play-off spots.
Isthmian League South Division – 11th - P 46 W 19 D 11 L 16 GS 88 GA 86 GD +2 PTS 68
• FA Cup – Second Qualifying Round – Lost at home to Worthing 2-1 • FA Trophy – First Qualifying Round – Lost away to Faversham Town 1-0 • Kent Senior Cup – First Round – Lost at home to Dartford 2-1 • Isthmian League Cup – Did not enter
When did we last meet Cray Wanderers? Our excellent run of form against Cray Wanderers continued last season with the Rooks taking all six points and scoring eight goals in the process. In our first meeting at The Pan in October, The Rooks went in 2-1 down at half-time thanks to a Lloyd Harrington strike but within a few minutes goals from Jamie Brotherton. Cray were then reduced to ten men when full-back Jay Siva was sent off for a reckless challenge on Charlie Coppola. Jamie Brotherton then completed his hatrick with a spectacular strike before the visitors were reduced to nine men with Danny Haynes sent off for violent conduct. Duncan Culley then finished the job off in injury time.
At Hayes Lane in February, The Rooks took an early lead thanks to Stephen Okoh then Harrington scored another against Cray before another excellent strike from James Hammond wrapped up all three points for The Rooks.
About Hayes Lane Cray Wanderers will still be calling Bromley’s Hayes Lane home for a few more season whilst their new ground at Flamingo Park in Sidcup is built. Not that they are suffering too much at Hayes Lane as the Conference National side has invested heavily in the ground in recent years including the installation of seating behind the goal in the old wooden stand. At the far end covered terracing remains. At one side is the modern looking John Fiorini (Main) Stand. This covered all seated stand doesn’t have any supporting pillars and sits astride the half way line whilst opposite is a decent sized, quite steep terrace that gives some excellent views of the cricket pitch next door if the football isn’t up to much. There is a decent-sized clubhouse which has a strange exclusion zone outside for drinking beer in, policed by stewards. One of the better grounds we will visit on our travels that’s for sure.
During the summer, Bromley FC have installed a 3G pitch.
How to get to Hayes Lane Exit the M25 at Junction 4 and take the A21 towards Bromley and London. After five miles for left at the traffic lights onto the A232 towards Croydon/Sutton. At the 2nd set of traffic lights turn right into Baston Road (B265). Continue straight on this road through Hayes. The road becomes Hayes Lane and after the mini roundabout the entrance to the ground is down on the right. There is a small car park at the ground, otherwise street parking. Total travel time from Lewes for the 53-mile trip from Lewes is around an hour and twenty minutes.
The ground is a fifteen-minute walk from Bromley South station (not North which is miles away!), frequently served by trains from London Victoria which is in zone 5. Simply head right out of the station, cross the road and walk down Westmoreland Road, taking the first left into Hayes Road and following this all the way down to Hayes Lane where the ground is opposite you. Journey time is around 90 minutes and an Off-Peak Day Return is £33.20. Alternatively, a number of buses run past the ground including the 314 from Eltham, 146 from Bromley Town centre and 119 from East Croydon which takes around the same time as the train but obviously much cheaper.
Admission at Hayes Lane Admission last season was £10 for adults, £5 for concessions (senior citizens, students and Under18s), and accompanied under 16s are £2.
Fancy a beer? Bromley town centre is a fifteen-minute walk away and has plenty of drinking establishments for all tastes. Opposite Bromley South Station is the popular Richmal Crompton pub, whilst The Tigers Head on the walk towards the ground is a good bet. For something a bit different, Bromley has a Belgos on Kentish Way at the back of The Glades shopping centre. At the north end of the pedestrianised High Street is The Partridge which is well known for decent pies.
East Grinstead Town Football Club – “The Wasps”
The GAC Stadium East Court College Lane East Grinstead West Sussex RH19 3LS
Tel: 01342 325885 Web: www.egtfc.co.uk Twitter: @egtfcwasps
About East Grinstead Town Football Club Founded – 1890 Manager – Matt Longhurst Best league position – 18th in Isthmian League South in 2016/17 Best FA Cup run – Unknown Ground Capacity – 1,000 (last season’s average 114)
How was last season? There was a small amount of progress for The Wasps last season as they ensured their Isthmian League South survival with games to spare. In a strange turn of events just after the new year, manager Matt Longhurst left to take up the assistant manager position at Hastings United only to return to the club two weeks later.
Isthmian League South Division – 18th - P 46 W 14 D 5 L 27 GS 82 GA 121 GD -39 PTS 47
• FA Cup – Preliminary Round – Lost away to Herne Bay 1-0 • FA Trophy – First Qualifying Round – Lost at home to Phoenix Sports 3-2 • Sussex Senior Cup – Second Round – Lost at home to Pagham 3-2 • Isthmian League Cup – First Round– Lost at home to Godalming Town 6-5 on pens
When did we last meet East Grinstead Town? We managed to do the double over East Grinstead last season, winning 3-1 away and a comprehensive 4-0 victory at The Pan in March. In the game in November, stunning strikes from Charlie Coppola, Stephen Okoh and Jonte Smith gave us all three points whilst at The Pan goals from Smith (x2), Matty George and Wilfried Grimaud capped off a great afternoon of football.
About The GAC Stadium Once you emerge from a C S Lewis-type country lane into the dell where the GAC Stadium is located you will feel like you are in another world. The ground is surrounded by trees and has one “developed” side with a thin main stand running above the side of the pitch and a small covered terrace next to it. Behind each goal, and the other side of the pitch is a simple perimeter fence with hard standing. The club house is relatively new and well-appointed, situated behind one goal, and offers limited views of the action on the pitch. Food is served from a hut in-between the two stands.
How to get to The GAC Stadium If you are coming via the M23 then exit at junction 10 and follow the A264 towards East Grinstead. When the road joins the A22, proceed past Homebase on the left and CarpetRight on the right, then turn left into Moat Road, signposted Hospital and A264 to Tunbridge Wells. Continue over the roundabout at the junction of Blackwell Road, Blackwell Hollow and Holtye Road. Continue 50 yards to the mini-roundabout at the junction of Blackwell Farm Road and Holtye Road and double-back. Do not turn through the gap in the central reservation as this is for emergency service vehicles only and you could be liable for prosecution. Turn left into East Court and turn immediately left into the lane which leads to the ground and car park.
If travelling to East Grinstead northbound along the A22 from Eastbourne, carry on over roundabout and proceed towards Town Centre (do not turn right onto Beeching Way bypass). After 100 yards, turn right at mini roundabout into College Lane and Blackwell Hollow. At roundabout at the bottom of Blackwell Hollow, turn right into Holtye Road. Continue 50 yards to the mini-roundabout at the junction of Blackwell Farm Road and Holtye Road and double-back as above. The shortest route from Lewes is via the A22 and should take around 40 minutes to do the 21 miles.
The nearest train station is 2 miles away and it is probably easier to get a cab but if you want to walk you can go via the Ounce & Ivy Bush pub. Come out of station and navigate around the roundabout so you are walking down Railway Approach. At the end bear right and then first left into King Street (pub on your right). At end turn left and then cross the A22 on the footbridge. Follow Moat Road straight on then right into Blackwell Road. Follow that down to roundabout and then take a right up the lane to the ground. You will need to change at East Croydon from Lewes, which can mean an hour and a half journey time. Off-Peak day return is £30.50.
Admission at The GAC Stadium Admission charges have yet to be announced for the 2017/18 season. Last season it was £9 for Adults, £5 for Concessions, £2 for Under16s.
Fancy a beer? If you are coming by train then you will pass the Railway Tavern at the end of Railway Approach which is worth a quick pint in before heading to the Wetherspoons Ounce & Ivy Bush on King Street. A bit further afield is the Sussex Arms in West Street that is also worth a visit, time permitting.
Faversham Town Football Club – “The Lilywhites”
The Shepherd Neame Stadium Salters Lane Faversham Kent ME13 8ND
Tel: 01795 591900 Web: www.favershamtownfc.co.uk Twitter: @FavershamTownFC
About Faversham Town Football Club Founded – 1884 Manager – Ray Turner Best league position – 3rd in Isthmian League South in 2012/13 and 2014/15 Best FA Cup run – Second Qualifying Round on six occasions – the last being in 2014/15 (lost 4-0 away to Maidenhead United) Ground Capacity – 2,000 (last season’s average 192)
How was last season? After a disappointing season last term finishing tenth, Manager Ray Turner wasted no time in the summer rebuilding his squad with Simon Overland (Keeper – signed from Sittingbourne), Sam Lawford (Striker – signed from Gillingham), Mark Lovell (Striker – at Herne Bay last season), Danny Walder (Midfieder also from Herne Bay) and Macauley Murray (Midfielder from Ramsgate)
Former Rook Will Godmon left the club in the summer, safe in the knowledge that he was the only goal keeper who kept out the Rooks last season.
Isthmian League South Division – 10th - P 46 W 22 D 8 L 16 GS 89 GA 58 GD +31 PTS 74
• FA Cup – Third Qualifying Round – lost away at Egham Town 1-0 after a replay • FA Trophy – 1st Qualifying Round – lost at home to South Park 3-4 • Kent Senior Cup – Second Round – Lost at home to Folkestone Invicta 4-0 • Isthmian League Cup – Third Round – Lost away to Dulwich Hamlet 2-1
When did we last meet Faversham Town? Our experience against Faversham Town last season weren’t the best. We suffered our most painful defeat of the season in September at the Shepherd Neame Stadium, going down without a fight 5-0, hardly registering a shot on goal. In the return fixture at The Pan in April, neither side really created a chance and we shared the spoils, in the process meaning that Faversham Town were the only side we failed to score against.
About The Shepherd Neame Stadium Salter Lane is a work in progress. Thanks to the patronage of the local brewers there are some exciting plans in place to change the face of the ground. The old “main stand” is still in existence, as too is the club bar at the far end of the ground which is a decent size. Food is served from a small hatch next to the main stand. Most of the remainder of the ground is hard-surface standing although you do get some elevation if you bag one of the spaces on the ramp up to the bar. The quaint changing rooms, which almost appear to be in a stable block will remain but it is in the area next to them that the next phases of development will take place in the coming years.
How to get to The Shepherd Neame Stadium There are few grounds in the Ryman League South that are easier to get to than the Shepherds Neame Stadium in Faversham if you are coming by car. Point your vehicle east on the M2 and follow it until you reach Junction 6. Take a left at the top of the slip road and follow this road for half-a-mile until you reach the T-junction with London Road. Turn right and then right again after two hundred yards for the ample car park. If that is full then there is plenty of street parking off London Road. The 87-mile trip from Lewes should take around 90 minutes.
If you are coming by train then you will almost certainly come via London Victoria. On arriving in Faversham exit the station and follow the road around to the left on Forbes Road. This will become “The Mall” and when this road reaches London Road, turn left and the ground is 300 yards on your right-hand side. It will take around 2 ½ hours from Lewes by train and an Off-Peak day return is currently £44.70.
Admission at The Shepherd Neame Stadium Admission this season is £9 for adults, £5 for concessions (senior citizens and students), 12 to 17 year olds are charged £2 and accompanied under 12s are admitted free of charge.
Fancy a beer? Unsurprisingly, as Faversham is the home of Shepherds Neame, there are quite a few decent pubs to choose from. There is also the option to visit the brewery for a guided tour (get a group together and they will offer an exclusive one) that of course includes a tasting session, which may be a good option pre-match if we play Faversham on a Saturday. The Visitor’s Centre is located in the Town Centre in Court Street. Other alternatives include the highly-recommended Elephant which is in The Mall and has a range of guest ales and the 14th century Sun Inn on West Street (which also offers accommodation if you fancy making a night of it).
Greenwich Borough Football Club – “Boro”
The DGS Marine Stadium Badgers Mount Middle Park Avenue Eltham London SE9 5HT
Tel: 07878 079566 Web: www.greenwichboroughfc.co.uk Twitter: @GBoroughFC
About Greenwich Borough Football Club Founded – 1928 (as Woolwich Borough Council FC) Manager – Gary Alexander Best league position – 3rd in the Isthmian League South in 2016/17 Best FA Cup run – 4th Qualifying Round in 2014/15 - Lost 2-1 away to Worcester City Ground Capacity – 1,000 (last season’s average 192)
How was last season? Big (and we mean really big) spending Greenwich Borough ultimately failed in their aim to get back- to-back promotions as they were beaten at home by Corinthian Casuals 4-3 in the play-offs. Manager Gary Alexander favoured a policy of buying players at will, using a huge number during the season, releasing those who didn’t work out at short notice such as Tooting’s top scorer Mike Dunn. Scoring goals was never an issue for them but surprise home defeats to the likes of Chipstead, Sittingbourne, South Park and Whyteleafe ultimately cost them a run at the title.
Borough have lost skipper Glenn Wilson, Rob Denness, Mo Eisa, Lewis Spence and Liam MacDevitt (to the Rooks) although former Brentford centre-back Mark Phillips has joined from Ebbsfleet United.
Isthmian League South – 3rd - P 46 W 30 D 5 L 11 GS 102 GA 52 GD +50 PTS 95
• FA Cup – First Qualifying Round – lost away to Walton Casuals 3-2 • FA Trophy – Preliminary Round – lost at home to VCD Athletic 1-2 after a replay • Kent Senior Cup – Second Round – Lost at home to Margate 6-1 • Isthmian League Cup – Second Round – Lost at home to Dulwich Hamlet 2-1
When did we last meet Greenwich Borough? We lost both games to Greenwich Borough last season, 4-2 at The Pan in early October and 1-0 in a tense affair at Badgers Mount in late March. In the first meeting Borough went in at half-time 3-0 to the good thanks to a hatrick from Rob Denness. But a second-half revival from The Rooks thanks to goals from Duncan Culley and Charlie Coppola gave us some hope before a fourth Morrison secured all three points. A Charlie McDonald strike was the only difference between the two sides in a game of few chances on a dry and bobbly surface in March.
About The DGS Marine Stadium (ground sharing with Cray Valley Paper Mills) No more than three years ago, Badgers Mount was basically a pitch with a small club house. Cray Valley Paper Mills rise up the leagues to Step 5 of the Non-League pyramid has seen the ground transformed. Floodlights have been installed and there is now a small temporary-style stand that can accommodate 100 fans under cover. Hard standing surrounds the rest of the pitch. The jewel in the crown is the relatively new club house that has a decent sized bar and Sky TV. Food is served from the hatch by the player’s entrance and you can also order drinks from the bar through the hatch.
How to get to The DGS Marine Stadium The ground is easy to find if you are coming by car. It is located just off the South Circular A205 at the Yorkshire Grey roundabout. From the M25, exit at Junction 3 and follow the A20 towards Lewisham and London. Pass through the two sets of traffic lights and then when you reach the roundabout with the South Circular A205, go around it and head back down the A20. Take the first left where the entrance to GOALS! Is into Eltham Palace Road. Follow this to the roundabout at the end, turn left and first left for the ground. There is a large car park inside the ground. If you are coming from the A2 (either north or south), head onto the A205 South Circular s/p Catford. At the roundabout take the second exit into Middle Park Avenue. The entrance to the ground is on your right-hand side. Journey time from Lewes for the 67-mile journey is an hour and fifteen minutes on a good day.
The nearest train station is Mottingham, which is on the Sidcup Line from London Charing Cross/Cannon Street/London Bridge and is in Zone 4. You can catch the 160 bus to the ground or walk – it is about 15 minutes away. Exit the station (from London turn left, from Sidcup/Dartford cross bridge then turn left) into Middle Park Avenue and follow this for about a mile, going straight on at the roundabout. The ground is at the end of this road on your left-hand side. Journey time from Lewes, including a change at London Bridge (or tube to Charing X from London Victoria) is around 2 hours and an Off-Peak Travel Card fare is around £26.70.
Admission at The DGS Marine Stadium Admission this season will be £10 for Adults, Concessions £5 and Under11s free of charge.
Fancy a beer? The only pub close to the ground is the Dutch House on the A20 but requires crossing the very busy road. There is a decent pub across the road from Mottingham station, The Royal Tavern but the best option is to head to Eltham and sample a number of decent pubs there including the outstanding Park Tavern in Passy Place or the Old Post Office opposite. You can walk down Eltham Hill to the ground in around 15 minutes.
Guernsey Football Club – “The Green Lions”
Footes Lane Stadium St Peter Port Guernsey GY1 2UL
Tel: 01481 747279 Web: www.guernseyfc.com Twitter: @GuernseyFC
About Guernsey Football Club Founded – 2011 Manager – Tony Vance Best league position – 4th in Isthmian League South Division in 2013/14 Best FA Cup run – 2nd Qualifying Round in 2013/14 - Lost 2-3 at home to Dover Athletic Ground Capacity – 5,000 (last season’s average 660)
How was last season? It was another season of misery for Tony Vance’s men as injuries and departures to key players had a deep impact on the campaign. Their home record was good in the first third of the season, taking 19 points from their first ten home games but the visit of The Rooks in late November seemed to be the compelling event and they won just one more home game all season, taking just 7 points from the final thirteen home games. They really struggled on the road (and air), taking just 13 points, with ten of those coming in the final eight games. The two key moments in the season were the bad leg injury sustained by goalkeeper and captain Chris Tardif against Godalming Town in November and the decision by top scorer Ross Allen to tour the world, although he did return towards the end of the season. In the end that late run of good results kept the Green Lions up.
Isthmian League South Division – 21st - P 46 W 9 D 11 L 26 GS 66 GA 112 GD -46 PTS 38
• FA Cup – Preliminary Round – lost away to Thamesmead Town on penalties after a replay • FA Trophy – Preliminary Round – lost away to South Park 2-0 • Isthmian League Cup – Did not enter
When did we last meet Guernsey? The Rooks took all six points off Guernsey last season, beating them 1-0 at The Pan on a sun- drenched October afternoon thanks to a smart goal from Jamie Brotherton, whilst the 4-2 win on the island in November was a game full of incident. The first half saw two soft penalties awarded, one for each side although it was only the home team who converted through McGrath. A few minutes later Brotherton was fouled apparently in the area and from the resulting penalty, struck the bar. However, the Rooks were level soon after when Duncan Culley bundled home from close range.
The second half was all Lewes though. Jack Dixon converted a penalty after Culley was fouled, but Guernsey came back and equalised. However, Dixon’s superb strike from distance restored the Rooks lead and then Stephen Okoh scored the goal of the season as he ran the full length of the pitch before curling the ball home.
About The Footes Lane Stadium The Footes Lane Stadium is Guernsey’s premier sporting facility and effectively the island’s national stadium comprising a high quality, floodlit playing surface surrounded by a 6 lane polyflex synthetic athletics track with The Garenne Stand, a 720 seater covered stand with hospitality rooms, changing rooms for four teams and match officials, separate medical room, media room and toilets. At the South End of the ground there is an open stand above the hard standing.
Including standing areas, the stadium has a 5,000 capacity. The 13-acre facility was redeveloped in 2002 at a cost of £1.2m including the construction of The Garenne Stand in readiness for the 2003 Island Games at which, amongst other events, Footes Lane hosted the final of the football tournament with 5,000 spectators, a number which was matched again two years later for the centenary Muratti Vase final between Guernsey and Jersey in 2005.
The stadium is owned by the States of Guernsey and hired to Guernsey FC by the States’ Culture & Leisure Department. It is also the home of Guernsey RFC, which plays in the RFU's National League Three London Division.
How to get to The Footes Lane Stadium The vast majority of away fans will arrive on Guernsey via air. Aurigny (www.aurigny.com) offer three Saturday morning flights from London Gatwick at 08:30, 10:00 and 11:50, with returns back on Sundays at 7am, 10:20, 14:50, 16:30 and 18:15. The ground is around three miles north-east of the airport and is walkable although the bus network offers the opportunity to see a bit of the Island. Bus 95 runs to St.Peter Port Town Terminus for just £1. From there you can get bus 51 to Footes Lane (again, another £1). The ground is located centrally in the island, is easily accessible with parking for several hundred cars in the immediate vicinity. Most trips will mean an overnight stop so a hotel or B & B is needed. The nearest to the ground is the St Pierre Park Hotel which is around 10 a minute walk away. Alternatives are Le Friquet Country Hotel and Grisnoir Guest House which are within half a mile of the ground.
Admission at The Footes Lane Stadium Admission is £10 for Adults, Concessions £6 and Under16s are £1 for the seated areas but £6 to stand anywhere else in the ground. This season’s prices have not been confirmed yet.
Fancy a beer? There are numerous excellent bars in St Peter Port as you can imagine. The Forester Arms on St George Esplanade has the prime location to watch the world go by on and off shore whilst The Swan on St Julian’s Avenue is often touted as the best on the island both for food and drink whilst The Last Post on Rue des Buttes is a popular haunt. There are good bars and pubs all over the island, not just St Peter Port and it’s hard to go wrong wherever you choose.
Hastings United Football Club – “The Arrows”
The Pilot Field Elphinstone Road Hastings East Sussex TN34 2AX
Tel: 01424 444635 Web: www.hastingsunitedfc.co.uk Twitter: @HastingsUFC
About Hastings United Football Club Founded – 1894 as Rock-a-Nore Manager – Adam Hinshelwood Best league position – 7th in Isthmian League Premier Division in 2009/10 Best FA Cup run – 3rd Round in 2011/12 – Lost away to Middlesbrough 4-1 Ground Capacity – 4,050 (last season’s average 376)
How was last season? Once again Hastings will look back on a season of what might have been. After the last day heartache of missing out on the play-offs in 2015/16, last season they managed to reach the end of season knock-out matches having finished the season in 5th place, scoring goals for fun (their total of 128 in the league was the highest in all three Isthmian divisions). Unfortunately, they lost at Dorking Wanderers on penalties after a 1-1 draw. The season ended on a surprising note with manager Darren Hare leaving, being replaced by former Worthing boss Adam Hinshelwood, with former Rook Lee Carey coming in as player/coach. With one of the bigger budgets in the division it is no surprise that they have already started building a strong squad including recruiting former Rooks Billy Medlock and Jack Dixon.
Isthmian League South Division – 5th - P 46 W 23 D 13 L 10 GS 128 GA 64 GD +64 PTS 82
• FA Cup – 3rd Qualifying Round – lost at home to Margate 2-1 in a replay • FA Trophy – 2nd Qualifying Round – lost away at South Park 3-2 in a replay • Sussex Senior Cup – Second Round – Lost at home to Three Bridges 4-1 • Isthmian League Cup – Second Round – Lost away to Faversham Town on pens after 1-1 draw
When did we last meet Hastings United? There was certainly no shortage of action in the two games between the sides last season. Hastings won the big Boxing Day derby in front of a season-high attendance of 702 with ease, making the most of an early Jack Dixon red card to win 3-0. In the final home game of the season, with Lewes needing a win to keep alive their slim play-off hopes, the two sides shared eight goals in a thrilling encounter. Hastings took the lead through Shomari Barnwell’s header only for Jonte Smith to equalise a few minutes later. Jack Dixon then hit one of his spectacular efforts from distance to give Lewes the lead only for Barnwell to score his second just after the half-hour mark. Five minutes before the break Alex Malins headed the Rooks back into the lead, whilst at the other end former Rook Ollie Rowe had an effort ruled out through offside. On the hour Hastings drew level again when Hughes-Mason ghosted into the area and slotted home, but Lewes when up the other end and scored a fourth through a rare Jack Dixon header. But with ten minutes remaining Rowe finally got his goal to give Hastings a share of the points and guarantee their place in the play-offs.
About The Pilot Field The words “proper Non-League ground” couldn’t be more apt for the ground which is still very popular amongst stadium enthusiasts (aka “groundhoppers”) for the dirt track that surrounds the pitch and its old fashioned grandstand. The main stand itself can hold up to 800 spectators, the majority of which are seated on wooden benches. Opposite the main stand is a large grass bank, which at point spectators could have used as a vantage point, however this is now fenced off due to health and safety. Located under the stand are the changing rooms and board room (formally the club bar).
There is covered terracing behind both goals, the more modern 'Cole Warren Stand' being constructed during the 2005/06 season at the opposite end, there is a large covered terrace that had been erect during Hastings United time at the ground between 1948 and 1985. In one corner of the ground next to the 'Elphinstone Road end' terrace are the main turnstiles, club bar, toilet facilities and club shop.
Due to the increasing ground maintenance cost and ageing main stand, former club chairman Dave Walters expressed his interest in working with the council to build a new stadium as part of a new sports complex, which would involve selling off The Pilot Field and the neighbouring Firs football ground, currently lying derelict. However, there has been a lack of progress regarding the proposals and with the change in ownership it is unlikely to see the light of day in the near future.
How to get to The Pilot Field For those heading from the north on the A21, pass Sainsbury’s on your right, go straight ahead at two mini roundabouts and turn left at the third onto the A2101 St Helens Road (The Pilot Field is signposted at this point). After approximately a mile and a quarter, take the fifth turning on the left into St Helens Park Road, which leads into Downs Road. At the end of this road, turn left and the ground is situated immediately on your right.
From the general direction of Lewes, head west on the A27 then the A259. Proceed along Bexhill Road, turning left at a set of traffic lights onto the B2092 Harley Shute Road. Go straight ahead at a mini roundabout continue straight ahead at the main roundabout that follows (signposted Hollington) into Ironlatch Avenue, which leads into Blackman Avenue. Follow this road through two sets of traffic lights, continuing straight ahead at the crossroads into Ashbrook Road, which leads into Old Harrow Road. At the end of the road turn right at the mini roundabout, and then turn left at the next onto the A2101 St Helens Road (The Pilot Field is signposted at this point). After approximately a mile and a quarter, take the fifth turning on the left into St Helens Park Road, which leads into Downs Road. At the end of the road, turn left and the ground is situated immediately on your right. Please note that there is no spectator parking available within the ground itself, but there are plenty of roads within close walking distance that have no parking restrictions such as on Ochiltree Road (first right after passing the ground on your right). It should take around 45 minutes to do the 32- mile journey.
If you are coming by train, then for once you don’t need to head towards London. Instead catch a direct train from Lewes, journey time around 50 minutes. There is a one minute journey time if you get a train that requires a change at Hampden Park. An Off-Peak Day Return is currently £11.30. It’s a fair distance uphill from the station so Bus 21 or 21B may be the better option. Ore is the nearest station if you are walking – allow about 20 minutes. Head down Beaconsfield Road to the roundabout and the turn right into Elphinstone Road and start to walk uphill. You will see the ground eventually on your right-hand side.
Admission at The Pilot Field Admission this season is £10 for adults, £6 for concessions (senior citizens, students), and accompanied under 18s are admitted free of charge.
Fancy a beer? There are some good pubs in Hastings with one of the best being the Anchor in George Street, whilst The Dolphin in the Old Town is also highly rated. The Telegraph rates The Crown in All Saints Street as one of the best pubs in the country. The Clown in Russel Street is worth a half at least whilst the Cutter in East Parade offers no nonsense food and drink.
Herne Bay Football Club – “The Bay”
Winch’s Field Stanley Gardens Herne Bay Kent CT6 5SG
Tel: 01227 374156 Web: www.pitchero.com/clubs/hernebay Twitter: @Herne_Bay_FC
About Herne Bay Football Club Founded – 1886 Manager – To be appointed Best league position – 8th Isthmian League South in 2015/16 Best FA Cup run – 4th Qualifying Round in 1986/87 - Lost 4-0 away to Farnborough Ground Capacity – 4,000 (last season’s average 206)
How was last season? After an 8th place finish in 2015/16, last season was relatively disappointing for Herne Bay as they finished the season in 17th place. Early season form wasn’t good – they had to wait until November for their first away win whilst suffering heavy defeats at Hastings United (7-0) and Faversham Town (6-3) and Guernsey (5-1). Sam Denly relinquished his post at the end of the season and the club are still looking for a new manager at the time of compiling this guide. Whoever it is will have to do without Mark Lovell and Danny Walder, two of the stars of the Herne Bay side who have moved up the A2 to Faversham Town.
Isthmian League South Division – 17th - P 46 W 13 D 12 L 21 GS 74 GA 54 GD +25 PTS 76
• FA Cup – First Qualifying Round – Lost at home to Hemel Hempstead Town 5-1 • FA Trophy – First Qualifying Round – Lost away at Harrow Borough 3-0 after a replay • Kent Senior Cup – Second Round – Lost at home to Dover Athletic 1-0 • Isthmian League Cup – First Round – Lost at home to Hastings United on penalties
When did we last meet Herne Bay? We went from never playing Herne Bay to playing them twice in the space of five days last season, recording two wins in the process. January is probably not the best time of the year to visit the Kent seaside but The Rooks certainly enjoyed their trip in January, running out 4-1 winners thanks to a hatrick from Stephen Okoh. After five minutes the home side could have taken the lead but Adria in the Rooks goal pulled off an excellent penalty save from Ian Pullman. Okoh grabbed two goals towards the end of the half, assisted by Charlie Coppola and Egli Kaja, then completed his hatrick in the opening minute of the second period after Charlie Coppola was fouled and the referee awarded a spot-kick. On-loan Kaja then scored a superb fourth, volleying in Brinkhurst’s cross. The only blemish on the night was conceding a goal at the other end in injury time.
Five days later and the teams met again at The Pan. James Hammond scored a trademark free-kick in the sixth minute to give the Rooks the lead but Herne Bay pulled level soon after Jack Dixon pulled down Mark Lovell and Danny Walder scored from the spot. Hammond scored his second in the 68th minute and the fourth penalty in the games between the two sides saw Jack Dixon score after Egli Kaja had been fouled.
About Winch’s Field Winch’s Field boasts different styled four stands, floodlights and a well-appointed clubhouse which is regularly hired out for functions. The ground sits on the site of the former Winch’s brick yard, a Herne Bay landmark since Victorian times. The one stand that strikes you as unusual is the main stand. It is a large blue building, next to the bar, and houses the dressing rooms and dugouts. Behind both goals are covered terraces, with the east end being bigger in terms of height. There is a small covered stand on the south side of the ground which offers decent views. Whilst the ground is showing its age, it is a pleasantly rural setting, surrounded by trees
How to get to Winch’s Field Virtually all visitors will come via the A299 Thanet Way from the west. Take the junction for Herne Bay, going straight on at first roundabout and then left at the second (s/p Seafront). Follow this road until you pass under the railway bridge. Take the next left into Spenser Road and then the first left after about 200 yards into Stanley Road. The ground is on the left-hand side. There is plenty of parking at the ground or in the surrounding streets free of charge. It is just shy of a 100-mile trip from Lewes and should take around 1 hour 45minutes traffic permitting.
If you are coming by train then it is a ten-minute walk from Herne Bay Station (on the London Victoria to Ramsgate/Margate line). Turn right out of the station and follow Spenser Road, then after 500yards take a right into Stanley Road for the ground. Train journey time from Lewes is around 2hours 50 minutes via London Victoria and unless there are any specials, will cost around £50 return.
Admission at Winch’s Field Admission this season is £9 for adults, £5 for concessions (senior citizens, students and Under18s), and accompanied under 12s are £1.
Fancy a beer? The no.1 nightspot in Herne Bay is the Firkin Frog no less in Station Road which is one of the new breed of pop-up real ale pubs that from the outside look like shops. Well worth a visit especially if you are coming by train. If you fancy a walk along the seafront then head to the very blue (in colour not atmosphere) Divers Arms on Central Parade which is a Shepherds Neame house. Alternatively, The Bouncing Barrel Ale House on Bank Street is well recommended.
Horsham Football Club – “The Hornets”
The Sussex County FA Headquarters Culver Road Lancing West Sussex BN15 9AX
Tel: 07952 351712 Web: www.horsham-fc.co.uk Twitter: @horshamfc
About Horsham Football Club Founded – 1871 Manager – Dominic di Paola Best league performance – 8th in Isthmian League Premier Division in 2006/07 Best FA Cup run – 2nd round proper – 2007/08 (lost away to Swansea City in a replay) Ground Capacity – 2,000 (last season’s average attendance was 268)
How was last season? After promotion in 2015/16 survival was the main aim for last season and di Paolo’s team did that with points to spare thanks in part to a good home record, although they did miss the goals of Terry Dodd once he was injured. Di Paolo has brought in former Rooks favourite Chris Breach and Three Bridges defender Dan Mobsby. Also joining is Haywards Heath Town keeper Josh Hames and Rob O’Tool.
Isthmian League South – 16th - P 46 W 17 D 10 L 19 GS 79 GA 80 GD -1 PTS 61
• FA Cup – Preliminary Round – Lost away to Sevenoaks Town 4-2 • FA Trophy – First Qualifying Round – Lost at home to Romford 3-1 • Sussex Senior Cup – Third Round – Lost away to Bognor Regis Town 3-0 • Isthmian League Cup – First Round – Lost away to Burgess Hill Town 1-0
When did we last meet Horsham? Horsham did the double over The Rooks last season, winning 3-0 at Gorings Mead and 2-1 at The Dripping Pan on Bank Holiday Monday over Christmas. The tie in August was effectively over once the referee took the decision to send off centre-back Afolabi Coker. From the resulting free-kick, Boswell scored. Goals from former Rook Terry Dodd and a second for Boswell gave the home side bragging rights and all three points.
At Christmas, Horsham came to the Dripping Pan to face an in-form Rooks side and spoilt any festive cheer with goals from Lewis Hyde and George Branford before the break. Jonte Smith grabbed a goal back but they couldn’t find an equaliser and started 2017 in the worst possible way.
About Culver Road After years of trying, the club finally got the news they wanted last season about the plan to move to a new stadium at Holbrook. On 21 March 2017 the submission of a revised plan for a reduced capacity of 1,300 spectators and a single-storey clubhouse was overwhelmingly accepted by 19 votes to 1. A separate application to sell off part of The Holbrook Club site for housing to help finance the building of the new ground, as well as securing the long-term future of the Sports Club, was also passed.
With Horsham YMCA announcing their intention to end the ground share arrangement at the end of the 2016-17 season, Horsham F.C. signed a contract to play their home matches at the headquarters of the Sussex FA at Culver Road, Lancing, for the 2017-18 season whilst the new ground is built.
So, for at least one season the club will be playing on the excellent 3G surface at Lancing. The ground has a decent main stand plus a cover behind the south goal. Views are decent from all sides. There’s a decent sized bar and plenty of food outlets.
How to get to Culver Road Take the A27 through Lewes, Brighton, Hove, Portslade & Shoreham until you reach the roundabout at Lancing Leisure Centre. Turn left at the roundabout into Grinstead Lane. 500 yards on the right is The Harvester restaurant, turn right after the restaurant into Grinstead Avenue, left at the mini roundabout into North Road. Pass the shops until the next mini roundabout and turn right into Culver Road. There’s street parking in the area although it may be metered. It’s a short journey for Rooks fans and should only take 20 minutes.
If you are coming by rail then the good news is that the station is a five-minute walk from the ground. Head north up North Road, past the Railway Pub and then at the roundabout next to Nationwide take a left and the ground is on the right. You will need to change trains at Brighton but the journey time is around 30 minutes.
Admission at Culver Road Admission this season at Culver Road will be £9 for adults, £5 for concessions (senior citizens, students and Under18s), and accompanied under 16s free of charge, otherwise they will be chaged £1.
Fancy a beer? The Stanley Ale House on North Road is an excellent pre-match spot whist the Railway is fairly decent. There is a good size bar at Culver Road as well.
Hythe Town Football Club – “The Cannons”
Reachfields Stadium (off) Fort Road Hythe Kent CT21 6JS
Tel: 01303 264932 Web: www.hythetownfc.co.uk Twitter: @hythetownfc
About Hythe Town Football Club Founded – 1992 Manager – Clive Cook Best league performance – 4th in Isthmian League South Division in 2012/13 and 2015/16 Best FA Cup run – 1st round proper – 2010/11 (lost away to Hereford United) Ground Capacity – 3,000 (last season’s average 196)
How was last season? Hythe couldn’t keep up their early season form as the fixtures piled up and fell away in the final weeks, although 7th place is nothing to be scoffed at. It will be interesting to see how they fair this season without Alfie May and Frankie Sawyer up front.
Isthmian League South Division – 7th - P 46 W 23 D 9 L 14 GS 87 GA 65 GD +22 PTS 78
• FA Cup – Second Qualifying Round – lost at home to Walton Casuals 4-2 • FA Trophy – First Round – lost away to Welling United 8-1 • Kent Senior Cup – First Round – Lost at home to Gillingham 3-2 • Isthmian League Cup – First Round – Lost away to Faversham Town 3-0
When did we last meet Hythe Town? Hythe Town won the encounters on aggregate last season, thanks to their 4-0 win at Reachfields in December. Despite some heavy fog and a mounting injury crisis, the Rooks took to the field but soon found themselves a goal down (to Ryan Johnson) and a player down (Jack Dixon red card).. Alfie May thought Christmas had come early as he plundered a hatrick in a twenty minute spell either side of the break.
In a tense affair at The Pan in March, with both sides harbouring play-off hopes it was an Alex Malins first half header that settled an uninspiring game.
About Reachfields Reachfields is certainly one of the most unique grounds in the Ryman League. Set next to the army firing ranges (which can make for a quite scary afternoon if you are afraid of loud noises) and close to the seafront, it retains a rural feel despite being a short walk from the town centre. The most striking factor is the two-story main stand, which doubles as the club offices at ground level whilst upstairs is a very well appointed bar with balconies for fans to watch the game on (subject to an additional £2 fee). On two sides of the ground there is covered terracing, whilst the far end is open to the elements. There is a handy tea bar where you can still watch the game from that serves some decent grub.
How to get to Reachfields Reachfields Stadium is easily accessible from the M20 motorway. Leave the motorway at junction 11, then at the roundabout take the 3rd exit onto the B2068, signposted Hastings and Hythe. At the next roundabout take the 2nd exit onto Ashford Road, A20. Continue forward onto Ashford Road, A20. Entering Newingreen, at the T-junction turn left onto Hythe Road, A261, and signposted Hythe. Continue forward down London Road, A261. Entering Hythe, continue forward at the traffic lights onto Scanlons Bridge Road, A2008. Turn right at the next set of lights onto Dymchurch Road, A259. Either take the 1st left down Fort Road and turn right at the end of Fort Road for the car-park, or after a few hundred yards turn left onto the Reachfields estate. Follow the road round and the stadium will be on your right. There is plenty of free parking at the ground and in the surrounding streets. Another long trip for the Rooks with a journey time of around one hour 45 minutes to complete the 100-mile journey.
Don’t be fooled into thinking Hythe has a railway station – it doesn’t…unless you could the Dymchurch to Hythe steam railway that terminates a five-minute walk from Reachfields. The nearest mainline train station is Sandling. There are regular trains to Sandling from London Bridge and London Charing Cross, as well as Ashford International. From the station the ground is approximately half an hour on foot and would include a steep climb on the homeward journey. If you are determined to walk it then head out of the station and take a left onto Sandling Road and follow this down into Hythe. When you pass Brockhill Park College you need to take the fourth right into Bartholomew Lane. Follow that down and round the left-hand dog leg. Take the right into Barrack Hill which runs down into the one-way system. Carry straight over the bridge, passing the Light Railway station on your right. At end of road turn right onto Dymchurch Road then next left into Fort Road. Entrance to the ground is at the end on the right-hand side. The journey would require changes at Hastings and Ashford International to complete and take 2hours 30 minutes but as you are avoiding going into London an Off-peak return ticket would cost £20.70.
Admission at Reachfields Admission this season is £9 for adults, £6 for concessions (senior citizens, students and Under18s), and accompanied under 18s are charged £2. Note – there is an additional £2 charge to watch the game, space permitting, from the balcony.
Fancy a beer? Hythe has some decent drinking options. The favourite for those looking for guest ales will be the Three Mariners in Windmill Street, a five-minute walk away from Reachfields. Close by is The Hope in Stade Street which is highly recommended. In the High Street, The Globe Inn and Kings Head are both Shepherd Neame pubs whilst the White Hart in between them dates back to the 14th century and often has some good beers on tap. Molesey Football Club – “The Moles”
Walton Road Stadium 412 Walton Road West Molesey Surrey KT8 2JG
Tel: 02089 794823 Web: www.moleseyfc.co.uk Twitter: @MoleseyFC1953
About Molesey Football Club Founded – 1953 Manager – Peter Lelliott Best league performance – 8th in Isthmian League Premier Division in 1994/95 Best FA Cup run – 1st round proper – 1993/94 (lost away to Bath City) Ground Capacity – 4,000 (last season’s average 72)
How was last season? For a period last season it looked like Molesey would be involved in a relegation fight as they took just 13 points from their away trips including heavy defeats at Walton Casuals (7-0), Tooting & Mitcham (8-2) and Dorking Wanderers (6-0). In fact, they conceded 29 goals away from home to the top five.
Isthmian League South Division – 19th - P 46 W 11 D 10 L 25 GS 61 GA 116 GD -55 PTS 43
• FA Cup – Preliminary Round – lost at home to Godalming Town 2-0 • FA Trophy – Third Qualifying Round – lost at home to Romford 3-1 • Surrey Senior Cup – Second Round – Lost at home to Leatherhead 1-0 • Isthmian League Cup – First Round – Lost away to Carshalton Athletic 4-1
When did we last meet Molesey? Molesey and The Rooks were involved in a remarkable game at the very wet Dripping Pan in November as the torrential rain led to unplayable conditions. Despite the farcical conditions, the referee allowed the full 90 minutes to be played, the last 20 of which were contested on a giant puddle. During that final period the visitors scored twice to cancel out the first half goals from Jonte Smith and Jamie Brotherton.
In late February, there were no such concerns about the weather as Lewes romped to a 4-0 win at Walton Road thanks to goals from Jonte Smith in the first half and then the Bermudian again in the 68th minute when he was the quickest to react to an excellent save from Jack Dixon’s spot kick. Late goals from Callum Kealy and Wilfried Grimaud gave the score-line a comprehensive feel.
About The Walton Road Stadium The ground sits in the middle of a residential area although the tall trees on two sides give it a real rural feel. Facilities are relatively basic with one main stand which houses the offices and the bar (no alcohol outside though) and a couple of covered stands behind each goal.
For those who like a bit of Non-League trivia then The Walton Road Stadium was used as the location for the football club in the film Bend It Like Beckham.
How to get to The Walton Road Stadium For those who have made the journey to either Hampton & Richmond Borough or Metropolitan Police over the past few seasons then you are just a mile or so from Moseley, which sits almost equidistant between the two grounds as the crow flies.
Head around the M25 until junction 10 with the A3 then head London bound. After a couple of miles take the exit for the A244 and head towards Esher. When you get to the junction with the A307 turn right and head towards Sandown Park racecourse. At the Scilly Island roundabouts, head north on the A309 towards Hampton Court. At the roundabout with Embercourt Road, turn left and then right at the end of the road (opposite Imber Court) into Ember Lane. This then becomes Esher Lane. Once you cross the River Ember/Mole turn left into Walton Road and the ground is a few hundred yards down the road on the right-hand side. There’s plenty of free street parking around the ground. Journey time from Lewes is about 75 minutes for the 58-mile each way trip.
The nearest station is Hampton Court which is a fifteen-minute walk away. Come out of the station and cross the main road and head down Bridge Road. Follow that until the junction with Walton Road and then follow that until you see the ground on the left-hand side. Alternatively, Esher is about a twenty-minute walk. Head north on Ember Lane, following it around the right-hand bend then to the left, past Imber Court. Then as driving instructions. Hampton Court is in Zone 6 (about an hour and 45 minutes with a change at Clapham Junction - £23.50) whilst Esher (slightly longer journey by 5 mins but more trains from Clapham Junction - £28.70) is 1 stop outside the zonal map.
Admission at The Walton Road Stadium Admission this season is £10 for adults, £5 for concessions (senior citizens, students and Under18s), and accompanied under16s are free.
Fancy a beer? The nearest pub to the ground is the Poyntz Arms which is a Shepherds Neame pub which looks a bit dodgy from the outside but is decent inside. The Albion Hotel in Bridge Road is popular and does have a couple of ales on tap whilst the Bell is just off Esher Road in Bell Road if you are coming that way. Esher has some decent pubs such as The Bear whilst close to Imber Court is Marney’s Village Inn which is very popular.
Phoenix Sports Football Club – “Phoenix”
Phoenix Sports Ground Mayplace Road East Barnehurst Kent DA7 6JT
Tel: 01322 526159 Web: www.phoenixsportsclub.co.uk Twitter: @PhoenixSport82
About Phoenix Sports Football Club Founded – 1935 Manager – Andrew Mortlock Best league performance – 8th in Isthmian League North Division in 2016/17 Best FA Cup run – Second Qualifying Round in 2015/16 where they lost to AFC Hornchurch 5-2 Ground Capacity – 2,000 (last season’s average 87)
How was last season? For a period last season it looked like Phoenix Sports would be the surprise package in the Isthmian League North as they started off like a train and topped the league in the first few weeks thanks in part to the goals of Billy Medlock. However, they couldn’t keep up the momentum and fell away towards Christmas. But come the final two months of the season they bounced back and ended the season just four points off the play-offs. Despite having one of the smallest budgets in the league, the team spirit that saw the club win the South Eastern Counties Premier League two years ago is still evident in the club and they will likely to be a thorn in the side of many teams this season.
Isthmian League North Division – 9th - P 46 W 22 D 9 L 15 GS 71 GA 72 GD -1 PTS 75
• FA Cup – Preliminary Round – lost away at South Park 2-0 • FA Trophy – Second Qualifying Round – lost away at Winchester City 3-1 • Kent Senior Cup – Did not enter • Isthmian League Cup – Did not enter
When did we last meet Phoenix Sports? We’ve only met Sports once and that was in the FA Cup First Qualifying Round back in September 2015 in a game we’d all like to forget as the Rooks went down 2-0.
About Phoenix Sports Ground The ground is modest to say the least with two small covered newish stands on one side and hard standing around the rest of the pitch. There is a well-appointed club house behind the south goal and food is services from a hatch next door. On one side of the pitch is another pitch which can mean some tactical time wasting if the home side are in front.
How to get to The Phoenix Sports Ground Head up the A23/M23 then anti-clockwise on the M25 until junction 1A. Then take the A206 exit. At the roundabout take the 1st exit onto the A206 and follow this for 3.1 miles. At the roundabout with the A2000 take the 2nd exit onto Perry Street, then after 0.4 miles turn right onto Mayplace Road East. Carry on over the roundabout and then you will see the ground on the right. Distance from Lewes is around 70 miles and should take around 75 minutes. There’s a small car park at the ground otherwise it is free street parking.
The nearest station is Barnehurst which is served by trains from London Charing Cross and London Bridge on the Dartford line via Bexleyheath. Come out of the station, turn left and follow Barnehurst Road for half a mile before turning left into Maypole Road East. The ground is half a mile down the road on your left-hand side.
Alternatively, you could arrive via Crayford on the Sidcup line from London Charing Cross and London Bridge. Exit the station via Station Road and at the roundabout take the 1st exit and follow the A207. Continue onto Crayford High Street (A2000). At the roundabout go north into Perry Street then take the first left into Manor Road. Follow until the end then turn left into Mayplace Road East and the ground is on your right. It’s about a 25-minute walk with a nice uphill slog towards the end. Caution – don’t be fooled by the floodlights you can see from Crayford station – that’s Crayford Stadium, home of the greyhound racing track. However, they are open for racing on a Saturday morning from 10.30am and do an excellent breakfast and entrance is free.
Admission at The Phoenix Sports Ground Admission this season is £9 for adults, £5 for concessions (senior citizens, students and Under18s), and accompanied under16s are free.
Fancy a beer? If you come via Crayford then you are in luck as it is blessed with some decent pubs, none more so than the excellent micro-pub, the Penny Farthing on Waterside. As you walk up towards the ground then the Dukes Head and the One Bell are also worth a stop if the walk uphill is proving too much of a challenge. If you come via Barnehurst then The Red Barn is on the way from the station to the ground. The Prince Albert in Bexleyheath Broadway is also recommended although a little bit of a trek away.
Ramsgate Football Club – “The Rams”
Southwood Stadium Price’s Avenue Ramsgate Kent CT11 0AN
Tel: 01843 591662 Web: www.ramsgate-fc.co.uk Twitter: @RamsgateFC
About Ramsgate Football Club Founded – 1945 Manager – Lloyd Blackman Best league performance – 5th in Isthmian League Premier Division in 2007/08 Best FA Cup run – 1st round proper – 1955/56 (lost away to Watford 5-3) and 2005/06 (lost away to Nuneaton Borough 2-0) Ground Capacity – 2,500 (last season’s average 182)
How was last season? Ramsgate finished 12th for the second consecutive season, albeit six points worse off than in 2015/16. They’ve lost Luke Girt to Sheppey United but signed Adam Woollcott from Herne Bay and Matty Adams.
Isthmian League South Division – 12th - P 46 W 18 D 11 L 17 GS 79 GA 75 GD +4 PTS 65
• FA Cup – First Qualifying Round – lost at home to Whyteleafe 2-1 • FA Trophy – First Qualifying Round – Lost at home to Hastings United 3-0 • Kent Senior Cup – Quarter Final – Lost away to Folkestone Invicta 4-2 • Isthmian League Cup – First Round – Lost away to Sittingbourne 2-1
When did we last meet Ramsgate? Lewes got the better of The Rams over the two league meetings last season with a 3-2 win at The Pan in November and a 1-1 draw in freezing conditions in January on the Kent coast. At The Pan goals from Stephen Okoh and a Jack Dixon double although the most talked about goal was Ramsgate’s first when Jack Dixon’s back-pass from the halfway line hit a bump on the pitch as Lucas Covolan went to clear it and it bobbled into an empty net. A Dixon own goal? Harsh but correct.
On a freezing day and a frozen pitch in January the home side took the lead in the 30th minute when Lloyd Cotton hauled down Tom Chapman and the youngster got up to slot the penalty home. Lewes didn’t seem in the races until the hour mark when Stephen Okoh set up Jonte Smith and he slid the ball home.
About The Southwood Stadium The Southwood Stadium is massive. It is hard to comprehend how big the actual area of the ground really is from the outside as it is hemmed in by houses, but despite having a huge playing surface, with a wide perimeter of grass around, there is still undeveloped areas on each side. It is a basic ground. The clubhouse and changing rooms are outside the ground in the car park, and it is quite bizarre to see the players lining up in the car park (albeit behind fences) waiting to enter the playing field. There are covered terraces at each end and a small main stand with benches instead of seats. The far side of the ground is open. There is a Portakabin perched in the corner of the ground as the boardroom, and one on the other side that acts as the club shop. The club house is also outside the ground as you enter down Price’s Avenue.
How to get to The Southwood Stadium Approach Ramsgate from the west via A299 (Canterbury/London) or A256 (Dover/Folkestone) to Lord of Manor roundabout. Follow the signpost to Ramsgate along Canterbury Road East, counting via 2nd exit of the 1st roundabout. At the 2nd roundabout, continues towards Ramsgate on London Road (2nd exit). Take the 3rd turning on the left, into St Mildred’s Avenue, then 1st left into Queen Bertha Road. After the right-hand bend, take left into Southwood Road, and 1st left into Price’s Avenue. The stadium is at the end of Price’s Avenue. There is ample free parking at the ground or on the surrounding streets. Mileage from Lewes FC is 111 miles (our longest away trip by road).
The nearest railway station is Ramsgate (on the London Victoria line or the HS1 from St Pancras/Ebbsfleet/Ashford International), which is a 10-15-minute walk away. When you come out of the station turn right, and walk along Wilfred Road (past the Post Office Sorting office) and straight on at the traffic lights at the junction with St Lawrence Park Road into Grange Road. Follow Grange Road until you get to a shopping centre and at zebra crossing turn right into Southwood Road. Go up Southwood Road, following the road round to right at the top, then turn 1st left into Price’s Avenue. Current off-peak return fare from Lewes (changing at Hastings then Ashford International) is £20.70. Approximate journey time is 2 hours 25 minutes. The journey via London Victoria is over 3 hours long and may cost around £50.
Admission at The Southwood Stadium Admission last season was £10 for adults, £5 for concessions (senior citizens, students and Under18s), and accompanied under 12s are admitted free. There used to be an extra 50p charge to sit in the main stand. At the time of writing the club haven’t announced pricing for 2017/18 season.
Fancy a beer? The nearest pub to the ground is the York Tavern on Vale Road which is a decent size but many will head for the micro-pub, The Hovelling Boat Inn on York Street, one road back from the seafront. There’s a second micro-pub in Minster, around 4 miles from the centre of Ramsgate called the Hair of the Dog (High Street) which has some excellent reviews. Other decent bars in the town centre include The Red Lion on King Street and the Australian Arms which is on the walk from the station to the ground. Shoreham Football Club – “The Musselmen”
The Taxi-Link Community Sports Ground Middle Road Shoreham-by-Sea West Sussex BN43 6GA
Tel: 01273 454261 Web: www.pitchero.com/clubs/shorehamfc Twitter: @ShorehamFC
About Shoreham Football Club Founded – 1892 Manager – Sammy Donnelly Best league performance – 1st in Southern Combination League 2016/17 Best FA Cup run – 2nd Qualifying Round –2013/14 – lost to Dulwich Hamlet 6-0 Ground Capacity – 2,000 (last season’s average 104)
How was last season? Surprisingly, in mid-May manager Bryan O’Toole stepped down as manager with Sammy Donnelly appointed. His first job was to celebrate promotion to the Isthmian League for the first time after Champions Haywards Heath Town were docked points for fielding an illegible player. That being said, you can’t take anything away from Shoreham who fought a close battle all season, scoring goals for fun and keeping it very tight at the back.
Southern Combination Premier League – 1st - P 38 W 30 D 2 L 6 GS 110 GA 30 GD +80 PTS 92
• FA Cup – Preliminary Round – Lost at home to Dorking Wanderers 4-3 • FA Vase – First Round – Lost at home to Glebe 3-2 • Sussex Senior Cup – Quarter-Final– Lost at home to Bognor Regis Town 3-1
When did we last meet Shoreham? Despite being so local, it has been years since we met Shoreham in a competitive game seven to be precise when we met in the 2nd round of the Sussex Senior Cup back in November 2010 at Middle Road. On that night Shoreham took an early lead but a brace from Ben Godfrey and one from Tim Rivers secured safe passage to the next round. Of the current squad only Chris Winterton survives - he was an unused sub that night with youth team 'keeper JJ Banasco-Zaragoza making his only senior Rooks appearance between the sticks.
About The Taxi-Link Community Sports Ground The ground is relatively basic with one small covered stand behind the goal at the east end of the ground and a small covered stand in the south-east corner. Apart from that it is hard standing in the open air. How to get to The Taxi-Link Community Sports Ground An easy one for Lewes fans. Take the A27 to Shoreham. At the Holmbush Roundabout take the exit towards Southlands Hospital. Immediately before the hospital, turn left down Hammy Lane, then right at the mini roundabout into Middle Road. The entrance to the ground is at the far end of the recreation ground immediately on the right. Street parking is the only option. Allow 30 minutes for the 17-mile journey.
If you are coming by train then the ground is a ten-minute walk or a couple of minutes on a bus (routes 2, 2A and 20X pass the ground). If you are walking then double back on yourself as you exit the station and head down Gordon Road to the north of the railway line. This eventually feeds into Eastern Avenue around to the left. At the junction with Middle Road turn right and the ground is a couple of hundred yards on your right.
Admission at The Taxi-Link Community Sports Ground Admission this season is £9 for Adults, £5 for Concessions (including BHA season ticket holders), £6 for Students and Under16s are admitted free with an adult or £1 if they come alone.
Fancy a beer? There’s plenty of choice in and around Shoreham town centre but best bets are the Old Star micro pub (just off the High Street) which has 3-5 ever changing real ales on, while The Duke of Wellington ('The Welly') on the A259 Brighton (seafront) Road is a former Dark Star pub which is now run by their former brewer and always has a superb selection of ales, kegs, bottled beers and ciders. For convenience, The Buckingham Arms is opposite the train station which serves Harvey’s and Dark Star amongst others.
Sittingbourne Football Club – “The Brickies”
Woodstock Park Broadoak Road Sittingbourne Kent ME9 8AG
Tel: 01795 410777 Web: www.sittingbournefc.co.uk Twitter: @SittingbourneFC
About Sittingbourne Football Club Founded – 1886 Manager – Nick Davis Best league performance – 8th in Southern Premier League in 1993/94 and 1996/97 Best FA Cup run – 2nd round proper – 1925/26 (lost away to Swindon Town 7-0) and 1928/29 (lost away to Walsall 2-1) Ground Capacity – 1,500 (last season’s average 125)
How was last season? It was another disappointing season for The Brickies as at one stage they had the momentum that appeared to be taking them up to the Play-off places. They have brought back in striker Miles Cornwell from Folkestone Invicta plus keeper Daren Hawkes from Canterbury City.
Isthmian League South Division – 15th - P 46 W 17 D 11 L 18 GS 71 GA 86 GD -15 PTS 62
• FA Cup – Preliminary Round – Lost away to Hythe Town 5-0 • FA Trophy – Preliminary Round – Lost at home to Bury Town 2-0 • Kent Senior Cup – First Round – Lost at home to Ramsgate 2-1 • Isthmian League Cup – Second Round – Lost away to Tonbridge Angels 2-0
When did we last meet Sittingbourne? The away win at Sittingbourne in late September was probably the catalyst for the whole season for the Rooks. Arriving in Kent on the back of four league defeats and a painful exit to Sevenoaks Town in the FA Cup, The Rooks went 1-0 down early in the second half but some inspired substitutions saw the game turned around in just a fifteen-minute period thanks to goals from Charlie Coppola and two strikes from Jamie Brotherton, one from the penalty spot and the other a superb lobbed effort from thirty yards out.
Three months later back at the Pan the Rooks once again had to dig themselves out of a hole, having found themselves 2-0 down with ten minutes to play thanks to goals from Jack Dixon from the penalty spot and Jonte Smith.
About Woodstock Park The club have had a nomadic existence in the last few years, having been forced out of their Central Park Stadium which almost caused the club to go to the wall. They initially moved in as tenants at Woodstock Park FC’s ground and when the Kent Premier League club was wound up, Sittingbourne took over the tenancy. It is a very basic ground, with a well-appointed clubhouse dominating the ground. There are a couple of temporary stands on one side and one behind the goal but little else in the way of cover for the fans. There are tentative plans for a new ground with a 3G pitch to be constructed on land adjacent to Woodstock Park but no firm dates.
How to get to Woodstock Park Just to warn you that Woodstock Park enjoys a very rural location. Despite being just a few hundred yards from the M2, finding the ground involves a long and complicated route. You will almost certainly approach from the M2, requiring an exit at Junction 5, where you need to take the exit for the A249 towards Sheerness at the roundabout. You then need leave the A249 at the first junction that leads to the raised Key Street roundabout, and turn right onto the A2 to Sittingbourne.
Head round the one-way system towards the town centre and as you join the A2 again, take the next right into Park Road, Park Road eventually becomes Gore Court Road, Gore Court Road eventually becomes Woodstock Road, and finally Woodstock Road becomes Ruins Barn Road.
When houses disappear approximately half a mile down Ruins Barn Road, take next left signposted as Kent Science Park/Sittingbourne Research Centre into Broadoak Road. Travel downhill past the Science Park on the right, continue uphill and take the left into the Woodstock Park car park. Journey time for the 60-mile journey is around 1 hour 40 minutes assuming you go via the A228 or A229. If you plump for the longer route via the M23 and M25 it should take around the same time but 20 miles less each way.
The 343 bus runs to Woodstock Sports Park from the Sittingbourne Town Centre and train station which is on the Victoria line – should you wish to walk, good luck as it is around 2.5 miles and involves walking down some narrow country lanes and is not recommended. Journey time via London Victoria to Sittingbourne Station is around 2 hours 20 minutes and an Off-Peak Day Return is currently £40.80.
Admission at Woodstock Park Admission last season is £9 for adults, £5 for concessions (senior citizens, students and Under18s), Under16s £3 and accompanied under 11s are admitted free. At the time of writing the club haven’t announced pricing for 2017/18 season.
Fancy a beer? The rural location of Woodstock Park means there are no pubs within a mile and a half of the ground so you will need to stick to the town centre for a pre and post-match beer. The Bull in the High Street is considered the best pub in the town centre and the Park Tavern on Park Road is a good stopping off point on the way to the ground. The two pubs close to the station, The Vineyard and The Golden Hope are OK for a swift pre-train pint whilst The Paper Mill on Church Street is an excellent Micro Pub. South Park Football Club – “The Sparks”
King George’s Field Whitehall Lane South Park Reigate Surrey RH2 8LG
Tel: 01737 245963 Web: www.southparkfootballclub.co.uk Twitter: @South_ParkFc
About South Park Football Club Founded – 1897 Manager – Malcolm Porter Best league performance – 8th in Isthmian League Premier Division in 2016/17 Best FA Cup run – Fourth Qualifying Round – 2011/12 – Lost at home to Met Police 3-0 Ground Capacity – 2,000 (last season’s average 106)
How was last season? South Park recorded another record breaking season, finishing in their highest ever league position and reaching the Second Round of the FA Trophy where they travelled to Prenton Park to play Tranmere Rovers. Manager Malcolm Porter will look to strengthen his squad and keeping the never- say-die team spirit that took them to success last season.
Isthmian League South Division – 8th - P 46 W 24 D 4 L 18 GS 95 GA 80 GD +15 PTS 76
• FA Cup – Second Qualifying Round – lost at home to Leiston 4-1 • FA Trophy – Second Round – lost away to Tranmere Rovers 3-1 • Surrey Senior Cup – Second Round – Lost away to Merstham 3-0 • Isthmian League Cup – Semi-Final – Lost away to Billericay Town 4-3
When did we last meet South Park? It was a case of one win apiece last season, with both away sides coming out on top. At the Pan in September the Rooks took an early lead from an Alex Malins header but conceded three at the other end, with the unfortunate Stacey Freeman putting through his own net twice, sandwiched between a Kieran Lavery header.
After four postponements, the two sides finally met again in March with the Rooks winning 3-0 in a stormy affair that saw Matthew George and Kieran Lavery sent off and a host more players yellow carded. James Hammond scored one of the goals of the season to open the scoring in the first half. Jonte Smith added a second before Hammo added a third in injury time to keep the Rooks play-off challenge alive.
About King George’s Field You certainly get the country feel at King George’s Field with rolling hills on one side of the pitch and a cricket field at the north end. The ground has two small modern temporary stands behind the south goal, with capacity for around 50 or 60 people, whilst the modern changing room block offers some cover from the elements. There is a tea bar at the far end of this building. The clubhouse is at the entrance to the sports ground where the car park is – you are free to wander up there at half time and re-enter the ground once fed and watered. It is a decent size affair with some good beers and large screens with Sky Sports.
The ground is dominated by the huge tree behind one goal that gives the club its badge.
How to get to King George’s Field The best piece of advice I can give you is use your SatNav or Google Maps! The ground is hard to reach once you have left the M25 junction 8 and followed the A217 Reigate Hill down into the Town Centre. Continue to follow signs for the A217 as you go around the one-way system. The road will pair off to the left and follow that the turning left into Bell Street. After about a mile take a right into Park Lane East then the 6th road on your left into Whitehall Lane and the ground will be on your right. Parking is available free of charge either on the cricket pitch or in the tarmac car park. Total travel time from Lewes is around 50 miles, approximately 38 miles away.
The nearest station is Reigate but it is a good 2-mile walk so a taxi may be the best option. If you are going to walk then head down London Road into the centre of Reigate, then walk through the Castle Grounds and down the A217 straight ahead opposite the Market Stores pub. Carry on for a mile before you take a right into Park Lane East. Then sixth left into Sandcross Lane and then take the right-hand fork for Whitehall Lane and the ground. You will need to make at least one change (Gatwick Airport) to reach Reigate – travel time is around 80 minutes and will cost approximately £13.40 return.
Admission at King George’s Field Admission last season was £9 for adults, £5 for concessions (senior citizens, students and Under18s), and accompanied under 12s are admitted free. At the time of writing, South Park have not confirmed pricing for 2017/18 season.
Fancy a beer? The nearest pub to the ground is the Barley Mow in Eastnor Road, a few-minutes walk from the ground. The best pub close by is probably the Roe Deer in Croydon Road in the centre of Reigate, whilst the Yew Tree on Reigate Hill is also worth a visit if coming by train. Next to the station is the Prince of Wales which is a Shepherds Neame pub.
Thamesmead Town Football Club – “The Mead” Dartford Football Club Princes Park Darenth Road Dartford Kent DA1 1RT
Tel: 07845 751319 Web: www.thamesmeadtownfc.com Twitter: @ThamesmeadTFC
About Thamesmead Town Football Club Founded – 1969 Manager – Terry Spillane Best league performance – 22nd in the Isthmian League Premier Division in 2013/14 Best FA Cup run – Third Qualifying Round in 2016/17 where they lost to Merstham 5-1 Ground Capacity – 4,100 (last season’s average 91)
How was last season? Thamesmead once again struggled to compete with many of the bigger teams in the league and will be grateful for some early season points that kept them insulated from any relegation battle. They lost 17 of their 24 league games by a single goal, which if they could have tightened up at the back would have seen them challenging higher up the table. At the time of writing there hasn’t been any notable changes to Terry Spillane’s squad.
Isthmian League North Division – 17th - P 46 W 16 D 6 L 24 GS 70 GA 78 GD -8 PTS 54
• FA Cup – Third Qualifying Round – Lost away to Merstham 5-1 • FA Trophy – Preliminary Round – Lost away to Corinthian Casuals 2-1 • Kent Senior Cup – First Round – Lost away to Folkestone Invicta 2-0 • Isthmian League Cup – First Round – Tie awarded to Romford
When did we last meet Thamesmead Town? We met Thamesmead Town for the first time in the 2013/14 season although we only took 1 point from the two encounters. In late November at The Pan it took an injury time goal from Matt Crabb to grab a share of the points whilst at Thamesmead in March we went down 2-0 with the game most notable for a horrible injury to Jack Walder.
About Princes Park Few people won’t know about the excellent facilities at Princes Park, home of Dartford FC. It came as quite a surprise that Thamesmead Town decided to move out of their Bayliss Avenue stadium at the end of last season, which had gone through significant redevelopment in the last few years and was more than adequate for their supporter base. Averaging less than 100 fans in the past few seasons there will be a lot of space in the 4,100 capacity Princes Park. On one side is the Main Stand. This stand is all seated and comprises just four rows, seating in total 645 spectators. It has the team dugouts at its front and a glassed area at the rear, which contains amongst other things the clubhouse bar. Like the rest of the stadium, the roof is situated quite high above the spectator area and has a slight oval angle to it. The other three sides of the stadium are small terraced areas, being around seven rows high. Opposite the Main Stand the Wooden Man sculpture stands on the terrace, keeping a watchful eye over proceedings.
How to get to Princes Park Head north on the A23/M23 then M25 anti- clockwise. Leave the M25 at Junction 2 (signposted A2/Dartford A225). At the roundabout below the roundabout take the Dartford A225 exit. At the next roundabout take the 1st exit by the Esso garage onto the A225 towards Dartford. Go straight across the next roundabout, passing a BP garage on the right. At the next set of traffic lights turn left into Darenth Road and then take the second left into Grassbanks for the stadium. There is a car park at the stadium which has 300 spaces and is free. Approximate driving time from Lewes is 70 minutes for the 60-mile trip.
Dartford railway station is located just over a mile away from Princes Park. It is served by trains from Charing Cross and London Bridge. If on leaving the station you follow the pedestrian signs for the Orchard Shopping Centre then before the bridge going across the main road, descend the steps down to the road side. Just to left you will find a row of bus stops including the Fastrack B bus stop. This service runs every ten minutes during the day (every 20 minutes in the evenings) to the Bluewater Shopping Centre and stops at Princes Park. The cost (one way) is Adults £1, Children 50p. Otherwise a taxi from the station to the stadium will cost around £5.
Otherwise the ground is a 15-minute walk away. Descend down the steps as above (or at the bottom of the station approach road), keep to the left along the main road and at the roundabout turn left. At the next traffic lights cross over and then walk straight on using the wide footpath beside the dedicated bus route. When this footpath ends, go up and into Darenth Road and follow this road to the right, then after crossing at the traffic lights go up the hill and the first road on the right is Darenth Road. Turn right and the Malt Shovel pub is on the right). Proceed along Darenth Road to the main road, which is Princes Road – The ground is on the other side of the road.
Admission at Princes Park Admission hasn’t been confirmed at the time of writing but is expected to be £8 for Adults, £5 for Concessions and £3 for Under16s. Under11s are admitted free of charge.
Fancy a beer? The nearest pub to the ground is the Ivy Leaf on Darenth Road, which is about a five-minute walk away, whilst further along the same road is the Malt Shovel. Both these pubs are listed in the CAMRA Good Beer Guide. Other ones of note are the CAMRA Good Beer Guide listed Wat Tyler on the High Street, the Paper Moon Wetherspoons outlet opposite and another Wetherspoons outlet called the Flying Boat on Spital Street. There are also two good sized bars at the stadium, which also have Sky television.
VCD Athletic Football Club – “The Vickers”
Oakwood Old Road Crayford Kent DA1 4DN
Tel: 07845 751319 Web: www.vcdathleticfc.uk Twitter: @VCDfc
About VCD Athletic Football Club Founded – 1916 Manager – Keith McMahon Best league performance – 18th in the Isthmian League Premier Division in 2014/15 Best FA Cup run – Second Qualifying Round on numerous occasions, the last being in n 2016/17 when they lost to Egham Town 2-1 Ground Capacity – 1,200 (last season’s average 76)
How was last season? After relegation from the Premier Division at the end of 2016, VCD struggled to make an impact on the Isthmian North league last season, averaging just over a goal a game. They failed to score in nineteen of their league games, including a long run in midseason without a goal. They were the 0-0 draw specialists, recording eight in the league. As at the time of writing Keith McMahon has not announced any new signings although expect to see some familiar names who seem to do the circuit of Kent-based clubs in time for the new season.
Isthmian League North Division – 15th - P 46 W 15 D 11 L 20 GS 53 GA 76 GD -23 PTS 56
• FA Cup – Second Qualifying Round – Lost away to Egham Town 2-1 • FA Trophy – First Qualifying Round – Lost away to Ware 3-1 • Kent Senior Cup – Quarter Final – Lost away to Dover Athletic 4-0 • Isthmian League Cup – First Round – Lost away to Chatham Town 1-0
When did we last meet VCD Athletic? We met VCD Athletic in the 2015/16 season when we both ended up being relegated from the Isthmian Premier League. In our first meeting of the season we drew 0-0 at Oakwood then in the return game at the Pan we were leading 2-0 until a poor refereeing decision led to a red card for Lloyd Cotton for handball and VCD took advantage with our bogeyman (we have a few to be fair) Rikki Sappleton scoring twice to give the visitors a share of the points. In fact, in our four meetings with VCD, we’ve yet to beat them with three games ending all square.
About Oakwood Oakwood is a great little ground, set in a natural reserve in and among the spreading commuter belt of South-East London. You enter at the highest level of the ground and a long path takes you down to a small covered stand. Views from the terrace as you enter are great and in the sunshine there’s few better places to watch the game. Apart from the covered stand it’s hard standing for the rest of the ground. The teams enter the battle field through a long-fenced area connected to an old cricket pavilion. In the distance you can see (and often hear) the ground of Phoenix Sports, their local neighbours and friendly rivals. There’s a club house outside the turnstiles which is accessible at half- time.
How to get to Oakwood Head up the A23/M23 then anti-clockwise on the M25 until junction 1A. Then take the A206 exit. At the roundabout take the 1st exit onto the A206 and follow this for 3.1 miles. At the roundabout with the A2000 take the 2nd exit onto Perry Street, then after 0.8 miles turn right onto Old Road and the ground is on the right. Distance from Lewes is around 70 miles and should take around 75 minutes. There’s a small car park at the ground otherwise it is free street parking.
Nearest station is Crayford which is served by trains from London Charing Cross and London Bridge on the Dartford line via Sidcup. Exit the station via Station Road and at the roundabout take the 1st exit and follow the A207. Continue onto Crayford High Street (A2000) and then continue onto Old Road. The ground will be on the right-hand side. It’s about a 20-minute walk with a nice uphill slog towards the end. Caution – don’t be fooled by the floodlights you can see from the station – that’s Crayford Stadium, home of the greyhound racing track. However, they are open for racing on a Saturday morning from 10.30am and do an excellent breakfast and entrance is free.
Admission at Oakwood Admission hasn’t been confirmed at the time of writing but is expected to be £9 for Adults, £5 for Concessions and free for Under16s.
Fancy a beer? Crayford is blessed with some decent pubs, none more so than the excellent micro-pub, the Penny Farthing on Waterside. As you walk up towards the ground then the Dukes Head and the One Bell are also worth a stop if the walk uphill is proving too much of a challenge. Walton Casuals Football Club – “The Stags”
Elmbridge Sports Hub Waterside Drive Walton-on-Thames Surrey KT12 2JP
Tel: 020 8660 5491 Web: www.waltoncasuals.com Twitter: @WaltonCasualsFC
About Walton Casuals Football Club Founded – 1948 Manager – Anthony Gale Best league position – 9th in Isthmian League South in 2013/14 Best FA Cup run – Third Qualifying Round 2009/10 – Lost at home to Staines Town 3-0 Ground Capacity at Whyteleafe – 2,000 (last season’s average 58)
How was last season? Casuals certainly weren’t goal shy last season, scoring 98 goals but unfortunately, they shipped 99 at the other end. A 7-0 win over Molesey was tempered by a 7-3 defeat at home to East Grinstead Town. Defeats against the teams at the top ultimately cost them a higher league position. Unfortunately, the fans stayed away with the average home attendance as a record low and only two league attendances breaking the 100 mark during the season. The club will be hoping those fans will return when the club gets back to Waterside in the Autumn.
Isthmian League South Division – 13th - P 46 W 19 D 8 L 19 GS 98 GA 99 GD -1 PTS 65
• FA Cup – Third Qualifying Round – lost away to Moneyfields 4-0 • FA Trophy – 1st Qualifying Round – lost away to Hythe Town 3-2 • Surrey Senior Cup – Second Round – Lost away to Woking 4-0 • Ryman League Cup – First Round – Lost away to Leatherhead 2-1
When did we last meet Walton Casuals? We’ve not met Walton Casuals in a competitive game in living memory.
About Elmbridge Sports Hub (Waterside) After spending two seasons in exile, Walton Casuals will return to Walton-on-Thames at some point prior to Christmas at the redeveloped Elmbridge Sports Hub, where local rivals Walton & Hersham will also be in residence. The redeveloped ground, costing £20m (and partly funded by the sale of Walton & Hersham’s Stompond Lane ground), will also include two full-size 3G pitches, an athletics track and a big, new clubhouse. Prior to their return, they will play their games at Cobham FC (see details below).
That’s all I can say about the ground at this stage apart from it being another stadium with a 3G pitch.
How to get to ElmBridge Sports Hub The ground is about a mile north of Walton-on- Thames Town Centre on the edge of the River Thames. From Lewes, head north up the A23 from the A27 then M23, M25 clockwise until junction 10. Head north on the A3 for a mile until the Painshill junction and take a left onto the A245 then right again after a few hundred yards onto Seven Hills Road. Follow the road into the Town Centre then follow signs for the A3050 s/p Hampton Court. At the second roundabout after ¾ mile take a left into Waterside Drive and follow to the end and round to the right where the car park for Waterside is. It’s a 60-mile trip each way and should take around 90 minutes.
The nearest station is Walton-on-Thames which is 25-minutes journey time from Clapham Junction in the direct of Woking. The station is around a 45-minute walk to the ground and so a taxi may be the best option but you will miss out on some decent pubs in the town centre.
Admission at Elmbridge Sports Hub Admission last season was £9 for adults at Church Road, £5 for concessions (senior citizens, students and Under18s), accompanied under 16s were £5 and Under12s were admitted free. It’s unclear what the pricing strategy will be this season at Waterside.
Fancy a beer? Walton has some decent pubs including the Anglers and the Swan on Manor Road on the way to the ground and on the Thames, whilst the Regent in Church Street is a former Cinema but has a decent beer menu.
Note - Walton Casuals will start the season at Cobham FC’s ground in Anvil Lane, which is relatively basic. To get there follow the directions above until you exit the A3 at Painshill where you need to turn right and follow the A245 Between Streets for half a mile before taking a right into Anvil Lane for the ground. The nearest station is Cobham & Stoke d’Abernon which is a 30 -inute walk away along the A245.Along this walk you will pass the excellent Running Mare.
Whyteleafe Football Club – “The Leafe” 15 Church Road Whyteleafe Surrey CR3 0AR Tel: 020 8660 5491 Web: www.theleafe.co.uk Twitter: @WhytleleafeFC
About Whyteleafe Football Club Founded – 1946 Manager – Leigh Dynan Best league position – 5th in Isthmian League Division South in 2002/03 Best FA Cup run – First Round in 1999/2000 – Lost away to Chester City 3-1 after a replay Ground Capacity – 2,000 (last season’s average 162)
How was last season? Whyteleafe finished one spot and two points better off than in 2015/16 safe in mid-table, closer to the top of the table than the bottom. A solid home record and some good results on the road gave the Whyteleafe fans confidence that the club were moving in the right direction. The club moved quickly to sign up Daniel Ajakaiye, last season’s top scorer and centre-back Jahmal Howlett-Mundle
Isthmian League South Division – 14th - P 46 W 19 D 7 L 20 GS 81 GA 75 GD +6 PTS 64
• FA Cup – Second Qualifying Round – Lost at home to Welling United 2-0 • FA Trophy – Preliminary Round – Lost at home to Cheshunt 3-1 • Surrey Senior Cup – Quarter Finals – Lost away at Merstham 2-1 • Isthmian League Cup – First Round – Lost away to Corinthian-Casuals 2-0
When did we last meet Whyteleafe? The Rooks won both games against Whyteleafe last season by the odd goal. In September the game at Church Road was decided by an own goal scored by centre-back Jake Downs in a tight affair whilst the reverse fixture in November was decided by goals from Jamie Brotherton and Jack Dixon although veteran centre-back Jon Scarborough pulled a late goal back to leave the Rooks fans nervously holding out for full-time.
About Church Road A mixture of different size and types of stands with the ground dominated by the Gold Aviation Stand with its claret seats (a present from West Ham’s co-owner David Gold who lives opposite maybe?) and all surrounded by tall trees to give you the feeling you are really in the countryside. The huge clubhouse is located outside the turnstiles (nabbed from Stoke City’s Victoria Ground) in the car park so you’ll have to walk backwards and forwards pre/during and post-match. The ground is also home to one of the newer 3G pitches in the Non-Leagues having been installed in 2015.
How to get to Church Road The ground is located alongside the A22 between Purley and Junction 6 of the M25. Head north on the A22 Caterham Bypass. Go straight on at the next roundabout where Ann Summers head office is located. Once you pass the Travelodge on your right-hand side you need to take the next left at Whyteleafe South station into Salmons Lane. Go up the hill then take first right into Church Road. The ground is a few hundred yards on the right-hand side. There’s limited parking at the ground so it may be easier parking at Whyteleafe Station. Total journey time from Lewes is 50 minutes for the 45-mile journey.
Whyteleafe is easily accessible by train, with three stations within a ten-minute walk - Whyteleafe, Whyteleafe South and Upper Warlingham. All three stations are in Zone 6. We would suggest alighting at Whyteleafe Station, which is a six-minute walk from the ground as per the directions above. The journey from Lewes requires two changes at East Croydon and Purley, taking one hour twenty-five minutes and an Off-Peak day return costs £17.90.
Admission at Church Road Admission this season is £10 for adults, £5 for concessions (senior citizens, students and Under18s), accompanied under 16s are £5 and Under12s are admitted free.
Fancy a beer? Close to Whyteleafe and Upper Warlingham is the Radius Arms micro pub on the A22 which is a very popular haunt whilst the Whyteleafe Tavern just down the road is more of your traditional pub.
2017/18 Fixtures
Saturday 12th August 2017 Herne Bay (A) League
Wednesday 16th August 2017 Guernsey (H) League
Saturday 19th August 2017 Peacehaven & Telscombe or Newhaven (H) FA Cup
Saturday 26th August 2017 Sittingbourne (H) League
Monday 28th August 2017 Hastings United (A) League
Saturday 2nd September 2017 South Park (A) League
Saturday 9th September 2017 Hythe Town (H) League
Tuesday 12th September 2017 Shoreham (A) League
Saturday 16th September 2017 Cray Wanderers (H) League
Saturday 23rd September 2017 Walton Casuals (to be played at Cobham FC) (A) League
Wed 27th September 2017 Whyteleafe (H) League
Saturday 30th September 2017 Molesey (H) League
Wednesday 4th October 2017 Guernsey (A) League
Saturday 7th October 2017 East Grinstead Town (A) FA Trophy
Saturday 14th October 2017 VCD Athletic (A) League
Saturday 21st October 2017 Herne Bay (H) League
Saturday 28th October 2017 Corinthian-Casuals (H) League
Saturday 4th November 2017 East Grinstead Town (A) League
Wednesday 8th November 2017 Shoreham (H) League
Saturday 11th November 2017 Carshalton Athletic (A) League
Wed 14th November 2017 Whyteleafe (A) League
Saturday 18th November 2017 Thamesmead Town (H) League
Saturday 25th November 2017 Phoenix Sports (H) League
Saturday 2nd December 2017 Greenwich Borough (A) League
Saturday 9th December 2017 Ashford United (H) League
Saturday 16th December 2017 Ramsgate (A) League
Saturday 23rd December 2017 Sittingbourne (A) League
Tuesday 26th December 2017 Hastings United (H) League
Saturday 30th December 2017 South Park (H) League Monday 1st January 2018 Horsham (A) League
Saturday 6th January 2018 Faversham Town (H) League
Saturday 13th January 2018 Chipstead (A) League
Saturday 20th January 2018 Cray Wanderers (A) League
Saturday 27th January 2018 Walton Casuals (H) League
Saturday 3rd February 2018 Thamesmead Town (A) League
Saturday 10th February 2018 Carshalton Athletic (H) League
Saturday 17th February 2018 Greenwich Borough (H) League
Saturday 24th February 2018 Phoenix Sports (A) League
Saturday 3rd March 2018 Ramsgate (H) League
Saturday 10th March 2018 Ashford United (A) League
Saturday 17th March 2018 Molesey (A) League
Saturday 24th March 2018 VCD Athletic (H) League
Saturday 31st March 2018 Hythe Town (A) League
Monday 2nd Apri 2018 Horsham (H) League
Saturday 7th April 2018 Corinthian-Casuals (A) League
Saturday 14th April 2018 East Grinstead Town (H) League
Saturday 21st April 2018 Faversham Town (A) League
Saturday 28th April 2018 Chipstead (H) League