We must match opponents' battling qualities, says Lovell

ASHFORD TOWN boss Steve Lovell knows sides will raise their game when they lock horns with the ambitious Kent club this season, writes Stephen McCartney.

The Nuts & Bolts open their Ryman League Division One South campaign with a home game against Walton Casuals on Saturday before travelling to two new sides, Sussex County League champions Crowborough Athletic next Tuesday and transferred Godalming Town, the following Saturday.

But the Welshman knows his side have to match their opponents if The Homelands outfit are to clinch the title at the end of the season.

“We shouldn’t win them at all,” Lovell told www.kentishfootball.co.uk, when asked that his side should win their opening three games.

“No-one’s got a divine right to win anything and they’ll be out to beat us.

“A lot of it has been made that Ashford will do this and do that this year. We’ll only do it if were on our mettle.

“Other teams will be up against us trying to stop us from doing that. No-one’s got a divine right to win the games and we know that.

“It’s going to be a tough season for everybody, especially if we pick up any more injuries.”

Visit Ashford Town’s website: www.ashfordtownfc.co.uk

Ashford Town v Walton Casuals
Ryman League Division One South
Saturday 16^th August 2008
Kick Off 3:00pm
At The Homelands, Ashford Road, Kingsnorth, Ashford, Kent TN26 1NJ