Gaffer’s Chat – 23/10/2020

After another busy week for Whyteleafe FC involving a heart stopping penalty shoot-out in the FA Trophy last Saturday and a not so euphoric midweek excursion to deepest Kent, it’s time to catch up with Leafe boss, Harry Hudson for his thoughts and views.

Harry, another tough game against Cray Valley PM last Saturday, this time in the Buildbase FA Trophy. I think you described that penalty shootout victory as a milestone moment?

It was a great win to keep our momentum going. Both games against Cray we haven’t played particularly well but managed to come through unbeaten, which is a good sign. 

Winning a penalty shoot-out is always enjoyable and the fans were excellent in helping us achieve it. 

You rate Cray Valley PM highly, I think. Their young manager, Kevin Watson also likes to play football the right way?

Cray are a very good side with outstanding players for this level – I am sure they will be right up there this season.

What are your thoughts on the draw for the next round of the FA Trophy against Southern League side Chesham? It’ll be another good test against higher opposition?

Yes, it certainly will be a good test! I don’t know too much about them yet so we will do our research next week and formulate a plan!

I guess you are still feeling the pain from Tuesday evening’s defeat away to Ashford. What do you put the flat display down to?

I thought we were truly awful in the first half and I want to apologise to the travelling fans for our performance level. I think there were a number of factors which contributed to the level we showed and we have addressed them as a group. We have to learn from Tuesday and move on very quickly.

Moving on. Another trip to Kent on Saturday (October 24 - 3pm) this time to face Sittingbourne FC (ME9 8AG), what are your thoughts on them and the game?

They have had some really good results, especially in the cup, so that will be a tough game. I admire a number of their players who will need to be managed carefully in the game.

We owe the club and especially the fans a performance - and good result - after Tuesday’s defeat. 

We hear that winger Andrew Sesay has left the club?

Yes, he has re-signed for Three Bridges.