Assistant Manager Brian Statham looks back on Tuesday night's Kent Senior Cup defeat to Margate, the improved performance and the positive signs from the younger players stepping into the first team.

"It was obviously disappointing to lose a local derby, especially by the single goal, and to go out of the Kent Senior Cup. We wanted to give the supporters something to shout about, and unfortunately we couldn't do that tonight. After the last meeting with Margate, we knew we had to improve, and I thought the players responded really well. We were more composed on the ball, showed more patience in possession and, importantly, we tried to play the style of football that Lee wants and what we want this team to be known for.
That said, I thought there was a lot more about us on Tuesday night. We created several good chances and got into some really good areas in the final third. The frustrating part is that we didn't take those opportunities. In games like this, particularly against your local rivals, you have to make the most of the chances.

There were also some really pleasing moments for the younger lads. Zach Keeble and Chigozirim Njoku both made their first team debuts, and I thought they did themselves and the club proud. Marli Collier also came into the side and continued his first team involvement after making his debut at Hanworth Villa on Saturday. It's not an easy environment to make your debut in a local derby, but the younger lads showed plenty of courage and composure.
Mason Hunter and Mikey Berry also came into the side for their first appearances, and both showed why Lee brought them to the club. I feel once they have settled in, become accustomed to our professional environment and the expectation levels of Lee, then they will thrive.

We're disappointed, there's no hiding from that, but I think it's important we look at the overall picture. The performance was a significant improvement from our previous meeting with Margate, and we saw more of the football and application that we're looking for from the team. The next step is turning those good passages of play and chances into goals and, ultimately, positive results, then delivering it consistently. There is plenty for us to work on, but there are also plenty of reasons to be encouraged."

We’ll see you on Saturday for our FA Trophy clash. Get behind the players, make some noise and let’s give them the support they need to get through to the next round!

Come on you Oysters!