16thsept04

Period of transition at Thamesmead

Thamsmead Town are going through a transition period at the moment with the introduction of four new players in the space of a week, writes Terry Hill.

Goalkeeper Grant Hall, defenders John Mayall and Danny Evans are joined by midfielder Adam Heaslewood, all of whom have been signed from Ryman Leaguers Cray Wanderers.

Thamesmead manager Paul Blade has lost a total of fourteen players this season and his side are looking to prove a point to a few of the deserters.

Last week saw the Mead come back from being two goals down to draw 2-2 at Deal Town and then in mid-week Blade's side finally played their FA Cup Preliminary Round tie against Eastbourne United, where a last minute Dean Burns goal put them through.

What would have pleased Blade more apart from the result, but in the two games of last week, Blade has used six of his reserve team players and all of them have came in and done a superb job for him.

Blade will also been pleased after what has happened at the club over the past month is his new side are starting to build a camaraderie atmosphere in the dressing room.

There is no pressure on Blade's side and they can go out and take the game to their Sussex opponents and enjoy the occasion.

The Bayliss Avenue pitch is in excellent condition and with £2,250 up for grabs for the winners, this could be the incentive needed for the Go Travel Kent League side to pull of an upset.

Thamesmead Town vs Worthing
FA Cup First Qualifying Round
Saturday 18 September 2004
Kick Off 3:00pm
at Bayliss Avenue, Thamesmead