Paul Foley Benefit Match: He was a consummate professional

STARS from the past are turning out for Paul Foley’s Benefit Match in Maidstone on Saturday.

Two of Jim Ward’s double-winning sides will turn back the years when they clash at the Gallagher Stadium.

Ward’s Maidstone United side of 2001-02 take on his Ramsgate team from the 1998-99 season.  He will be in the Rams dug out on the day, while his brother Danny and Steve Butler will take charge of the Stones.

Jim Ward told www.maidstoneunited.co.uk: “The response has been smashing – all the lads couldn’t do enough to help.

“At the end of the day we all want to raise money for Paul.  We’ve got a raffle going on and an auction afterwards. It’ll be great to see all the old faces from the Maidstone days and Ramsgate, of course.”

Foley, who played for both clubs, was diagnosed with a brain stem cell tumour in September 2012.  He had six weeks of intensive radiotherapy, followed by two full courses of chemotherapy. Sadly, his condition has deteriorated to the point of severely limited mobility.

“I was a very fortunate manager to have Paul Foley in my team at Ramsgate and then also with Maidstone. He was a consummate professional,” added Jim Ward.

“That double-winning team of Maidstone’s was the start of the club going places.  I know there was a lot that went before and also a lot that happened afterwards but we really set the seal and Paul was a major contributor in all that.

“I am really looking forward to coming back to the club and having the chance to manage at the Gallagher. The ground was talked about in my time but unfortunately didn’t happen until much later.

“I wish Jay Saunders and Maidstone all the best.  I’ve nothing but admiration for what Jay’s done at Maidstone. He’s done a great job and long may it continue,” added Jim Ward, who was in charge of the Stones when they were playing home games at Sittingbourne’s former ground at Bourne Park.

You can donate to Paul’s fundraising page, by visiting:

https://www.gofundme.com/brain-tumour-treatment

Saturday’s game starts at 15:00.  Admission is a minimum of £5 (adults), Children aged 11 and under are free. All proceeds will go to assist Paul with his care and equipment.

Visit Maidstone United’s website: www.maidstoneunited.co.uk