YOUNGSTERS GRAB CHANCE
Lordswood's young guns look set to keep their shirts for the FA Cup extra preliminary round this weekend.
REPORT AND INTERVIEW COURTESY OF MEDWAY MESSENGER - Thurs 8th August
Lordswood host Steyning Town community at Martyn Grove on Saturday with boss Darren Anslow likely to stick with the same XI who beat Glebe 3-1 in their opening Southern Counties East League game.
The youngsters were given a chance in the league after impressing in Lords' final pre-season friendly against Isthmian League side Phoenix Sports.
They did the business against Glebe and deserve to play again.
Anslow said: "The Phoenix game was switched from Saturday to Monday but three or four senior players had to work.
"The young boys came in and were exceptional, so we kept it the same against Glebe.
"There were some upset senior players but it sent out a good message to the younger ones who did well that they're not just going to be left out when people are back.
"We have to do what we think is right and what we've done is created healthy competition.
"What sort of message does it send to the younger lads if they play well and then get left out?
"They're left thinking, 'what am I here for?'"
Lordswood are playing for prize money of £2,250 against Steyning and a home tie against Ramsgate in the next round.
Assistant manager Owen Price has been to watch Steyning, so Lords are clued up for the important tie.
Anslow said: "These FA Cup games are massive with the prize money on offer now, so we've got to treat them the right way.
"The cherry on the cake is a tie against Ramsgate at home if we're lucky enough to get through and the potential for a bigger crowd."