‘Home’ win generates a sense of optimism

Canterbury City

Two new signings and a 4-1 win at Whitstable left Canterbury City boss Ben Smith with a spring in his step this week as he prepares to start a new job on Monday. Smith has been appointed head of PE at Whitstable Community College, following eight years at Canterbury High School, increasing his already strong connections to the town. Born and bred there and now living at Chestfield, it made Monday’s match against his former club, very much a home game for him. The FA Cup replay defeat at Pagham and a 1- 0 home defeat by AFC Croydon Athletic on Saturday, continued City’s slow start to the season but it all came right 48 hours later. Smith said: “Getting our noses in front was massive and belief grew in the side after that. “I thought we were outstanding and think the scoreline flattered them. He added: “I was pleased, especially for the board because we owed them one after the FA Cup defeat and I hope it gives us great momentum.” Smith added winger Taser Hassan to his squad last week, following his release by Ashford United, joining former team-mate Gary Clarke, who has recovered from a long-term abductor problem. He said: “Gary is the missing piece in midfield and he and Danny Lawrence ran the game against Whitstable and the pairing is quite exciting. “Taser sat on the bench for Ashford against us, is good friends with (former player) Dean Grant and told him he was interested in signing. “He has had two 90 minutes for us and offers something different, an old fashioned type winger, who stays wide, gets crosses in the box, and gives us a bit of variety.” City travel to Deal on Saturday (3pm) before hosting Sheppey United next Wednesday (7.45pm).