Chatham boss Binks hopes for better luck

CHATHAM TOWN manager Steve Binks hopes for better luck when his side welcome minnows Dorking to Maidstone Road in the preliminary round of the FA Cup on Saturday, writes Stephen McCartney.

Dorking played in the top flight of Ryman League football in 1993 but have since dropped into the second flight of the Combined Counties League and shouldn’t pose much of a threat to a Chatham Town side that play two divisions higher.

However, this is the FA Cup, and Binks knows his side could be on the end of a massive Cup shock if they don’t perform.

“It’s a potential banana skin and we’re doing everything to get our side on top of our game,” Binks told www.kentishfootball.co.uk tonight.

“We need a little change of luck (as) we’ve been unlucky with injuries so far.”

Brad Potter (fractured rib) and Ashley Probets (damaged ankle ligaments) are both expected to be out of action for up to six weeks.

Chris Tedder (ankle), Chris Shakalli (bruised ribs), Dan Larkin (split head) and Darern Smith are also doubtful for the preliminary round clash.

But despite their injury worries, Binks feels his side have enough in their locker to earn a trip to either Herne Bay (Bulmers Cider Kent League) or Chipstead (Ryman One South) in the next round.

“We just need to keep believing,” said Binks. “We’re doing everything right. Defensively we’re looking good, playing good football in midfield, but we’re not taking our chances in the final third.”

Binks revealed that he will make changes up front to find that goalscoring formula, especially as only two goals have been scored in their first four Ryman League Division One North games - leaving them in the bottom eight.

“Darren Smith and Steve Hafner have been the front two, but Darren has missed the last two games on holiday and is missing on Saturday,” said Binks.

“But Dominic Elmes came in for his first start on Monday and did very well and Tom Davey (who has recovered from a chipped bone), in his first start on Monday, was excellent, scored the equaliser.

“I might be looking to change it around up front on Saturday a little bit and try some other options.”

Binks said that Dorking have turned around their fortunes but he insists he will not underestimate their Surrey visitors.

“I don’t know anything about them but they’ve lost their opening games 1-0 (twice) but won their next two 4-1 and 4-3, so obviously they’ve picked it up a bit.

“So we’re going to be giving them the respect, we’re not treating any team lightly in this competition.”

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

Chatham Town v Dorking
FA Cup (Sponsored by E.ON) Preliminary Round
Saturday 30^th August 2008
Kick Off 3:00pm
At Maidstone Road Sports Ground, Bourneville Avenue, Chatham, Kent ME4 6ES