It will be an honour to lead my team into its first FA Vase game, says Lydd Town boss Liam Smith

LYDD TOWN boss Liam Smith says he will be a proud man when he leads the club on their FA Vase debut on Saturday.

The Lydders will begin their FA Vase adventure with a trip to Chessington & Hook United in the First Qualifying Round.

“Firstly, I would like to say what a proud day it will be for all those involved in the football club, people like Pat Lindsey, Rob Fisher, Bruce Marchant, Richard Hambley just to name a few for all their hard work within the club and at our excellent ground,” said Smith.

“It will be an honour to lead my team into its first FA Vase game. My dad (Dave) played for Lydd for 20 years, my older brother Craig used to play in goal for years and my brother Ryan is current club captain.

“That all being said, we are not going there on Saturday to make the numbers up.  It’s an one-off game, a Cup final type of game and my players won’t be leaving anything out there and we will be doing all we can to make the long trip worthwhile.”

Lydd Town rose to the top of the Southern Counties East Football League First Division table following their 2-1 win at Gravesham Borough, who are still searching for their first league win of the season.

“As for our season so far, at the time of (this interview), we are currently top of the table after winning last night, in a game we wasn’t at our best and I was really impressed with most of the Gravesham side.  They won’t be bottom for long” added Smith, whose side have collected 13 points from seven games.

“Yes, it’s only September but gives me a smile every time I think about Lydd Town Football Club being in first position.

“Our squad is strong, competition all over the place and some players are still gelling. 

“We are getting stronger every week, probably one of the fittest teams in the league.”

Smith has signed a long-throw specialist today in the shape of former Maidstone United man Aaron Lacy.

“His credentials speak for themselves.  I’m still after one more signing but I’m really happy with what I have so far,” said the manager.

Visit Lydd Town’s website:  www.lyddtownfc.co.uk

Chessington & Hook United  v  Lydd Town
The Buildbase FA Vase First Qualifying Round
Saturday 9^th September 2017
Kick Off 3:00pm
at Chalky Lane, Chessington, Surrey KT9 2NF