We start with a home tie against Hythe, a team many people fancy to be amongst the front runners, so it’s a great test for us and one we have to relish, says Ashford United boss Gary Alexander

ASHFORD UNITED manager Gary Alexander says he is expecting a tough and competitive game against Hythe Town tomorrow.

Both sides are expected to be challenging for promotion in the 20-team Bostik South East Division this season and the two Kent sides lock horns on a tasty opening day showdown at Homelands Stadium.

Hythe Town finished in seventh-place, just missing out on the play-offs by one point, while Ashford United struggled and had to settle for a place in the bottom four last season.

“I’m so glad the season is starting after a long and tough pre-season,” said Alexander.

“We start with a home tie against Hythe, a team many people fancy to be amongst the front runners, so it’s a great test for us at Ashford and one we have to relish.

“You can’t beat a derby and we have plenty this season, so it should be a real exciting one.

“With many teams doing good business and signing quality players, it’s going to be really competitive across the board and hopefully with last season behind us, we have a newly new squad from my time at the club.

“We look to improve our finish last year and be competitive in every game we play and give the fans more to sing about by winning more games home and away and you never know what could happen, it’s a long season ahead.”

Visit Ashford United’s website: www.ashfordunitedfc.com

Ashford United  v  Hythe Town
Bostik South East Division
Saturday 11 August 2018
Kick Off 3:00pm
at Homelands Stadium, Ashford Road, Kingsnorth, Ashford, Kent TN26 1NJ