Binks hails the return of Denness

CHATHAM TOWN boss Steve Binks says the return of forward Rob Denness will help the club climb up the Ryman League Division One North table, writes Stephen McCartney.

The strong forward, who has been on the sidelines since last April with a knee injury, returned to first-team action last night, scoring both goals in the 2-1 win at Waltham Abbey last night.

And the former Ashford Town striker will be instrumental in the Medway club’s rise away from the drop zone.

Still fifth-from-bottom, Chatham moved to within one point of Thamesmead Town - but more importantly eleven points clear of the drop zone.

“A couple of new signings have improved the quality,” Binks told www.kentishfootball.co.uk tonight.

“Rob Denness was back for his first start last night; two quality goals; made a big impact.

“He’s had three games in the reserves and that was his first start for the first team last night. Lee Barnett, the new signing (from Slade Green) has done well. It was the first time they’ve played together.

“I’d go as far to say it was Rob’s best game he’s played for us. Not only he scored two great goals, he’s hold up play was excellent. He’s 21, I think, he’s got the best years ahead of him.

“He’s got good experience in this level now and he’s desire last night was just top drawer.”

Saying that his coach, former Slade Green boss Matt Longhurst, “has made a good impact, with good ideas, good organisation,” Binks feels he has the players at the club to start climbing up the table.

“It’s very frustrating where we are in the table,” admitted Binks. “I remember our spell last year when we beat Kingstonian and Dover, who were the top two sides - and Met Police.

“We’ve got a very tough game at East Thurrock, who are the form side at the moment, second in the table, but on our day we’re capable of beating anybody and we have the ability to be higher in the table.”

Binks, meanwhile, rues the unavailability of certain players in recent weeks.

“We’re on a good little run, three wins out of four now, but fitness levels must improve,” he said.

“We have had injuries to a number of players. Last Saturday was the first time I’ve managed to field an unchanged starting eleven and last night there were six changes from the previous game through injuries and unavailability.

“I’ve never known so many players to take a holiday in the middle of the season.”

Goalkeeper James Smith retains his place for the trip to second placed East Thurrock United on Saturday, as Martin Grant, a reserve team goalkeeper who is on loan from Tonbridge Angels, is still on holiday.

Midfield rock, Alex O’Brien, who is on loan from Dartford, has torn his calf and has missed the last couple of games.

Simon Austin (who needs surgery on his troublesome groin) and Lee Hockey (holiday) are also out for the trip to Rookery Hill.

Visit Chatham Town’s website:  www.chathamtownfc.net

East Thurrock United v Chatham Town
Ryman League Division One North
Saturday 17^th January 2009
Kick Off 3:00pm
At Rookery Hill, Corringham, Essex SS17 9LB