We have to be at our best and I believe if we only play to our ability and strengths we will have a good day, says Phoenix Sports boss Paul Bryon

Friday 07th September 2018

PHOENIX SPORTS manager Paul Bryon says he wants the fans to flock through the turnstiles for their FA Cup First Qualifying Round tie against Lancing tomorrow.


The FA Cup trophy will be at the ground as sixth-placed Bostik South East Division side Phoenix Sports lock horns with thirteenth-placed Southern Combination Premier Division side Lancing.

Bryon’s side have won three of their four league games, while Lancing arrive with a win and two draws from five games.

Lancing have stunned Greenwich Borough by winning 7-3 in the Preliminary Round and then beat a second Bostik South East Division side in the shape of newly-promoted side Haywards Heath Town 2-0, once again away from home, in the last round.

“Everyone at Phoenix is excited about tomorrow’s game as it’s The FA Cup and no point in pretending it’s not special, because it is,” said Bryon.

“We are lucky to have a home draw but have a really tough game against Lancing, who have already knocked out two other teams in our league, so this will be a tough test.

“We have had a look at them and they are dangerous going forward but we have an experienced back five that will relish the challenge of any attack, so we’re looking forward to that battle.

“Hopefully we will get a few more fans in than usual and create a good atmosphere for everyone.”

Phoenix Sports defeated Three Bridges 3-2 away in The FA Cup Preliminary Round and will scoop a further £6,000 in prize money should they get past their Sussex opposition.

“Obviously, the money has increased this year but we actually don’t discuss this in the changing room. If we win, it’s a bonus and something only rarely talked about,” added Bryon.

“We have to be at our best and I believe if we only play to our ability and strengths we will have a good day.”

Visit Phoenix Sports website: www.phoenixsportsclub.co.uk

Phoenix Sports  v  Lancing
The Emirates FA Cup First Qualifying Round
Saturday 8 September 2018
Kick Off 3:00pm
at Mayplace Road East, Barnehurst, Kent DA7 6JT