We know full well that Sevenoaks will require a massive step-up in levels, says Canterbury City boss Ben Smith

CANTERBURY CITY manager Ben Smith says his side could be in for a long day at title-chasing Sevenoaks Town tomorrow.

Micky Collins' side remain at the summit of the Southern Counties East Football League Premier Division table with 42 points from 17 games, level on points with second-placed side Beckenham Town, but with three games in hand.

Canterbury City are in eleventh-place in the table with 30 points from 20 games and Smith’s side last beat Chatham Town 1-0 last time out, back on the 30 December 2017.

“It seems a long time since we beat Chatham,” said Smith. 

“It certainly wasn’t our prettiest performance but the lads showed great resilience against a robust, well-organised side.  To be honest, we’ve played a lot better and lost so it felt even better to make it three wins on the bounce.”

Sevenoaks Town have a 100% record in nine home games since turning their Greatness Park pitch from grass to plastic in the summer.

“We know full well that Sevenoaks will require a massive step-up in levels,” admitted Smith, who saw his side hold Sevenoks to a goal-less draw at The Charles Sports Ground in Deal on 18 November 2017.

“Quite clearly they are seeing the finishing line drawing closer and have brought some more quality in over the last month, so it will be harder than our previous meeting.

“I actually felt we have a very good account of ourselves, particularly second half of that game where we could have nicked it, but you could see in the first half they have a lot of talent going forward and if we are not at it then it’s going to be a long day!

“Although we've had a week without a game, we will make changes for the game as we have to get our priorities in order and unfortunately that's to concentrate on the Kent Reliance Senior Trophy against a strong side in Sporting Club Thamesmead the following week.

“It's not something I like doing but we've got to make sure we have the best chance possible to keep ourselves in the hunt for a trophy.”

Visit Canterbury City’s website: www.canterburycityfc.net

Sevenoaks Town  v  Canterbury City
Southern Counties East Football League Premier Division
Saturday 13 January 2018
Kick Off 3:00pm
at Greatness Park, Mill Lane, Seal Road, Sevenoaks, Kent TN14 5BX