Seager accepts underdog tag for semi-final Cup tie

WHITSTABLE TOWN manager Marc Seager expressed his delight after his young side knocked holders Ebbsfleet United out of the Kent Senior Cup last night, writes Stephen McCartney.

The Fleet made eleven changes to their side that knocked Welsh giants Wrexham out of the FA Trophy 24-hour earlier, but no-one can take anything away for the Oystermen, who join Bromley, Welling United and Ramsgate in the last four of the Kent Senior Cup.

“If I’ am honest this was a game that no-one expected us to win,” admitted Seager, when speaking to www.whitstabletownfc.co.uk. last night.

“Even though Ebbsfleet played last night and brought a mixed side with some youngsters and others pushing for a regular first team place, I think we surprised a few people tonight."

A goal in each half, the first within the first ten minute by Jon Neal put Whitstable Town ahead, Ebbsfleet struck back just before the interval through Matthew Judge, before Mark Munday, skipper against his old club, scored the winner from the spot in the second half.

Whitstable Town, who play three divisions lower than Ebbsfleet United, were indebted to keeper Kevin Fewell who made a number of important saves, non-more so than with fifteen minutes to go he saved a thunderbolt shot at full stretch. His fingertip save brings warm applause from the 195 fans who enjoyed a very entertaining match.

"We are in the hat for the next round up against Ramsgate, Bromley or Welling and after tonight I really don’t mind who we play next,” said Seager.

“We will still be the under-dogs but I bet come the day of the draw none of them will be looking forward to playing us especially if we are at home.

“I am very proud of all my players; Jon Neal and Mark Munday, both needed the run out tonight as did Jake Gess. Robbie Thomas and Dan Wisker all of them either on their way back from injury or needing to get the minutes under their belt out on the pitch.

“But then I thought that all the lads did exceptionally well against a disciplined, young fit side. It was important we started at the right tempo and never let them settle early on; we matched them all over the pitch and played some really good football. I thought we deserved to win and I am looking forward to the next round but not getting carried away “

But attention now turns to Saturday’s trip to basement boys Crowborough Athletic, who are destined to return to the Sussex County League, following a disastrous first campaign at Ryman League Division One South level.

And Seager added, “But tonight is gone, it was great for the players and the club but my focus now is on Saturday and getting three more points towards our goal of playing in the Ryman League next season."

Quotes courtesy of www.whitstabletownfc.co.uk

Crowborough Athletic v Whitstable Town
Ryman League Division One South
Saturday 28^th February 2009
Kick Off 3:00pm
At Crowborough Community Stadium, Alderbrook Recreation Ground, Fermor Road, Crowborough, East Sussex TN6 3DJ