Herne Bay chairman blames contractors for playing surface - EXCLUSIVE

Herne Bay chairman, Mr John Bathurst, has responded following criticism made last week about the playing surface at their Winch’s Field ground, writes Stephen McCartney.

Mr Bathurst would like to explain the situation about their pitch, following comments made by Thamesmead Town manager, Keith McMahon after the goal-less Kent League draw played between the two clubs last weekend.

Speaking EXCLUSIVELY to www.kentishfootball.co.uk, Mr Bathurst said: “I have just watched Thamesmead TV on the Thamesmead website and I would like to put on record that I am very disappointed with Keith in his interview to say that Herne Bay produced a disgraceful playing surface on purpose.

“What a stupid comment! We paid out more money on the pitch in the close season than for many a year, but were totally let down by the contractor.

“Forty tons of loam/sand deposited in mounds at various positions on the playing surface and then left for five days, killing the grass.

“I wonder if he would be so critical if his grounds man had done the same thing on his playing surface?

“Every club wants the best possible playing surface and we at Herne Bay are no different.

“To say we did it on purpose smacks of someone looking for a reason why they didn’t win!

“On the day, Bay out-played Mead for most of the second half. It was the same pitch for both sets of players."

The chairman added: “Our players have also complained about the surface but it hasn’t stopped them playing the best football seen for years at Winch’s Field.”

Visit club websites:

www.hernebayfc.net

www.thamesmeadtownfc.co.uk