Kentish Express Ashford & District
No play-offs an anti-climax
Sam Handley says no promotion play-off in Kent/Sussex 1 this season means there is little left to play for this season.
The decision has been taken following Marden Russets’ decision to withdraw their team from the competition and means champions-elect Blackheath & Old Elthamians will be the only team promoted.
Ashford skipper Handley said: “I was a bit gutted to hear that. It’s a shame and disappointing for us and all the other teams involved.
“Blackheath look like winning the league but it’s close with only four points between second and sixth, including ourselves.”
Lewis Elgar scored twice as Ashford won 3-0 at Maidstone on Saturday with Ronan Taggart getting the other goal.
Handley said: “It was a good display from a team playing with no pressure,”
Ashford entertain neighbours Folkestone on Saturday (2.30pm), having seen their unbeaten start to the season ended by a 4-1 defeat in the reverse fixture in November.
The rest of the men’s teams also enjoyed a winning weekend.
The 2nds beat Marden Russets 3-2 in Kent 1 to move out of the bottom three on goal difference.
The 3rds won 4-3 at Tunbridge Wells 2nds in Kent 2.
The 4ths tasted victory for only the second time this season, beating Burnt Ash 3rds 2-1 in Open Premier A.
Ashford Crusaders were 4-2 winners at Gore Court in Division 2. The 6ths won 3-0 against Blackheath & Old E Dynamos in Division 4.
Ashford ladies lost 2-1 at home to Wapping in East Division 2 South East.
The 2nds drew 0-0 against Tunbridge Wells in Kent Division 1, while the 3rds went down 5-2 at Sevenoaks Acorns.