Written By : on 14/10/2024

Categories: First Team Match Preview News

We embark on our first real logistical test this Tuesday night as we make the 140-mile round trip to face Herne Bay in the Isthmian League South East. The Crest Stadium will host this fixture for the first time in 11 years!

Our hosts, Herne Bay, sit in 15th place with seven points, though they have three games in hand. Their recent form has been mixed—two wins, two draws, and one loss in their last five league games. They’re coming off a dramatic 5-3 defeat to Sevenoaks, while we picked up a hard-fought 2-1 victory at Hythe Town. Herne Bay also enjoyed an impressive FA Cup run, making it to the third qualifying round before falling to Maidstone United in front of nearly 2,000 spectators.

For us, this fixture marks an opportunity to secure three straight wins and another away victory in Kent. Our lads have been relentless, consistently delivering on the pitch. Last time out in Kent, goals from Marcin Ruda and Leon Greig saw us edge past Hythe Town, lifting us to 9th in the table.

Looking back at our last visit to Herne Bay in September 2013, we came up short in a 3-2 loss. Despite two goals from Billy Medlock, Sam Hasler, Jordan Casey and James Turner would send us on a long journey home with nothing.

We’re heading to Herne Bay in 2024 with a renewed sense of optimism, especially with players making their way back from injuries. James Stone and James Hull are finding their match fitness, and Leon Greig made a triumphant return, scoring the winner on Saturday. While Dan Hull remains sidelined with a foot injury, manager Jude Macdonald’s squad looks healthier and more resilient.

Alfie Simmons jumps on teammates as they celebrate Marcin Ruda's goal against Hythe Town

Alfie Simmons jumps on teammates as they celebrate Marcin Ruda's goal against Hythe Town

Weather Report
The conditions at The Crest Stadium are expected to be overcast on Tuesday night with a temperature of around 13°C. Winds will be gusting up to 22mph, and there’s a chance of some light rain earlier in the day, so pack your waterproofs! It should be mostly dry for the match itself, though windy​.

Matchday Information 

Date: Tuesday 15 October 2024
Time: 7:45 pm
Competition: Isthmian League South East
Venue: The Crest Stadium, CT6 5SG
Admission: £10 Adult | £6 Concession | £4 U18 | £2 U12