FA Vase debut shows how far the club has come in recent years, says Rusthall joint-boss Steve Ashmore

RUSTHALL joint-manager Steve Ashmore says he’s relishing the club’s FA Vase debut – away to league rivals Bridon Ropes.

The Rustics have had a dream start to their Southern Counties East Football League First Division season and they had to Charlton sitting at the summit, having won seven and drawn one of their eight league outings.

They are three points clear of much-fancied, big-spending Glebe going into the Second Qualifying Round tie.

A crowd of 192 watched their 2-0 win over Crockenhill at Jockey Farm on Wednesday night as it seems that chairman Joe Croker is doing the same with Rusthall as he did at neighbouring Tunbridge Wells in getting people through the gate and delivering good football on the pitch.

“Wednesday’s game was another good performance and win for us, against a well-organised Crockenhill side,” said Ashmore.

“We kept the ball well, played at a good tempo and created a lot of chances, which we were unlucky not to convert into more goals.

“We also welcomed back Dan Powell to the starting XI and he got through 65 minutes, which was another positive for us going into the Vase game this Saturday.

“He has been a big miss for us because he had been in such fine form before he got injured and his pace in behind and work rate makes him such a threat for us.”

Bridon Ropes go into the game sitting in eighth-place in the table, winning four, drawing and losing two games.

“Tomorrow’s game is one we are very much looking forward to as it’s a great competition to be involved in for all,” said Ashmore.

“It’s also a historical game for the club as it will be their first in the Vase competition and it shows how far the club has come in recent years and the commitment and drive we have to keep progressing.

“We are now up against a tough side who had a good result against Orpington in midweek and the players are well aware they will have to put a good, hard working team performance if we are going to progress, which of course if our aim, as we want to see how far we can go in this competition.”

Visit Rusthall’s website:  www.rusthallfc.com

Bridon Ropes  v  Rusthall
The Buildbase FA Vase Second Qualifying Round
Saturday 24^th September 2016
Kick Off 3:00pm
At Meridian Sports & Social Club, Charlton Park Lane, Charlton, London SE7 8QS