I didn’t feel there was any gulf of difference between the players as is so often expected, says Cray Valley boss Kevin Watson

CRAY VALLEY (Paper Mills) manager Kevin Watson says there wasn’t a gulf in class between his team and full-time opposition on Sunday.

The Millers reached The FA Cup First Round for the first time after losing 1-0 at Havant & Waterlooville.

Watson’s side started their FA Cup campaign in the Preliminary Round where they thrashed their Isthmian League South East Division rivals VCD Athletic 6-0 on 12 September.

The Millers then knocked out Burgess Hill Town (3-1), Aveley (2-0) and Whyteleafe (3-2 on penalties after a 0-0 draw) before they pulled off a giant-killing by beating National League side Maidenhead United 3-2 at York Road before losing to National League South side Havant & Waterlooville, courtesy of Bedsente Gomis’ 18th minute header.

“First and foremost, on behalf of the players I would like to thank all those that sent well wishes and supported the club through this Cup journey,” Watson told the club website.

“It was not a journey that I felt needed to end on Sunday but fine margins are often all it takes.

“We are pleased with the mindset and attitude displayed by the players but to be honest that is the least we expect.

“At times the game lacked a bit of quality but in high stakes Cup football, it can happen.

“If there was one aspect which I felt the opposition performed better, it was the management of the game.

“I didn’t feel there was any gulf of difference between the players as is so often expected.

“There were certainly some talking points in the game, which could have easily swung things more in our favour but we are not looking for reasons or excuses beyond those that we can control.”

Cray Valley are sitting in 12^th place in the table, having collected one win and three draws from their opening five league outings, seven points adrift of the play-off places.

“I hope that our players can grow and improve as a result of this experience,” said Watson.

“It’s imperative that we improve our performances in the league, whenever that may resume again.

“In time, we will digest Sunday’s game and look to give the right guidance and support to foster the growth.”

Paul Doswell, meanwhile, has enticed striker Danny Kedwell, 37, back to Havant & Waterlooville, following a short spell with Southern Counties East Football League Premier Division side Hollands & Blair.

The former Gillingham striker scored four goals for Simon Halsey’s side before his departure back to the Hampshire club.

Visit Cray Valley’s website: www.crayvalleypmfc.com