Cray Valley are, of course, a fellow Isthmian League South East division team and have made a good start to their league campaign with 2 wins and a draw from their opening 4 games. It is in the FA Cup however that they have been catching the eye, particularly last week when they ran out 3-0 winners against Hastings United – a goal from Sonny Black and two from Daniel Bennett seeing them through to the next round. There is no doubt that they are likely to be pushing for promotion this year and will provide a stern test for our rapidly improving Lancing team. Last season saw Lancing lose 4-2 at Culver Road before a 2-1 win at Cray, who were top at the time, in mid-December giving us a lovely early Christmas present. Despite that the Cray board and management were gracious in defeat and their hospitality after the game was one of the best we experienced all season.

There was no game for us last week of course as many teams continued on their FA Cup journey but the week before saw us win 1-0 at home to Chichester City. This was a thoroughly deserved victory and I felt we dominated the opening hour. We took the lead on the 58^th and Chichester went down to 10 men shortly afterwards and it was only at that point that they began to look dangerous. It is often the case that playing against 10 men proves difficult and this was no exception, but we held on with ever really being troubled for a deserved win. As usual you can read Dave Wilmott’s match report in this programme.

Just a reminder that we are planning on running coaches to some away games again this season – those of you who came last season will know how enjoyable those days always are – so listen for announcements and look out for details of that on social media throughout the season or speak to Terry who has a printed list of planned coaches. We will be running a coach next week to Ramsgate and that match is definitely on as Ramsgate have exited the FA Cup already. The coach will be leaving at 10am from Culver Road, cost is £20 per adult and £10 for U16s and you can pay cash on the day or pay Terry in advance.

Today’s match is sponsored by club patron Brian Hill. Brian also organises the 1941 Patron’s Club (more details of which can be found in the programme and on the website). Brian has been part of the club for many years and we thank Brian for his continued support. There are still sponsorship opportunities available so please let a member of the committee know if you are interested.

I hope you all enjoy the game today. We have a really great core of loyal supporters who are vital to the continued success of the club and we are truly grateful for the vocal and financial support you give to the club. Come on you Yellows (and blues).

Barry