Hello and welcome back to Champion Hill on what is a special day for the club, our 100th campaign in the world's oldest knockout competition – the FA Cup. Today's match will bring a close to what has been a decent first month in charge. Last Monday's fixture down at Whitehawk was disappointing.

The way we chose to set up was, in retrospect, something we didn't quite get right. I’ll hold my hands up. Lessons have been learned and it is something to build on when that situation arrives again. I’d like to welcome all of those associated with Whitstable Town including their manager Jamie Coyle. I'd also like to offer my belated congratulations on winning the FA Vase.

It's a dream of everyone’s to reach Wembley and win and the Oysters did just that back in 2024/25. After today, we face a tough September with league fixtures against the sides sitting above and below us in the table.

It will be a real test of our character and of our squad depth. But three games on the spin at Champion Hill excites us. There is nothing better than playing here in front of our fans.

You’ve been amazing so far, keep getting behind the boys. Enjoy the warm weather and more importantly today's game.

Mark.