14thaug03

Lordswood boss anticipates tough game against VCD

Speaking after his side's 3-2 victory at Tunbridge Wells on Wednesday, Lordswood manager Barry Zillwood admitted he will wait until after Saturday's game against tenants VCD Athletic before he can judge his side's chances for the title,
writes Stephen McCartney.

Trailing 2-0 at half time, at Tunbridge Wells on Wednesday, an inspiring half time talk from Zillwood sparked life into his side and Sam Colyer's header four minutes after the break pulled a goal back for the Lords.

But a brace from Mike Cunningham in two second half minutes meant Lordswood are the only side in the Go Travel Kent League Premier Division with a 100% record.

Zillwood admitted:  "We are top in the dizzy heights by not losing yet, but we have a tough game Saturday against VCD Athletic.  I watched them on Tuesday night and they are a good side."

Zillwood gave his opinion on who could win the Kent League title this season and he is backing last season's double winners Cray Wanderers.

He said: "Cray are an all round strong side and obviously Maidstone United will be up there, with possibly Herne Bay and Thamesmead Town.  The same old sides really." admitted Zillwood.

In June 1996 Lordswood officials attended the Kent League AGM and made a successful application to join the Kent League with teams playing in the Premier Division and Division One.

Zillwood said:  "Lordswood is a fantastic club.  We own our own ground and it's a superb ground and clubhouse."

Situated in the Medway towns, the club has continually improved its facilities over the years.  Current facilities include floodlights, a 150-seater stand, hard standing/terracing around three sides of the ground and a brand new hospitality suite/boardroom.  The suite was officially opened by Andy Hessenthaller who brought his Gillingham side to the ground for a friendly match last July.

Gillingham won that match 5-0 but Lordswood broke their highest ever attendance figure when 600 supporters saw Lordswood give a good account of themselves against the Division One side.

Back to this Saturday, if Lordswood can gain three points over Martin Ford's VCD Athletic,  Zillwood can take their challenge for honours this season seriously.