When Ashford travelled to Cray sixteen years ago in September 1993, for the only previous meeting between the clubs, few would have envisaged on that day that sixteen years later we would be meeting up for a match in the Ryman Premier Division.  That previous game was in the Extra-Preliminary Round of the FA Vase, which we managed to win by three goals to two after extra time in a very tight match.

Our visitors have not made the start to life in the Premier Division that they would have hoped, having accumulated twelve points so far from the fifteen matches they have played.  Their three wins though have all come away from home, their victims being Tooting, Margate and AFC Hornchurch and as we al know there are no easy matches at this level.

On Tuesday, by the sound of it, they were distinctly unlucky to lose 2-3 at Wealdstone, as a result of a 90^th minute own goal, in a match that saw one player from each side sent off, Cray’s offender being Scott Kinch who, by co-incidence was also sent off at Short Lane a season or so back, whilst playing for Tonbridge Angels and he is one of a number of ex-Angels in the Cray squad.

As at Friday afternoon the pitch is fine but if there is poor weather over night we shall arrange a pitch inspection for around 11.00 a.m. and details will be posted as soon as possible after that.

The Suburban League match away to Wealdstone is subject to a definite pitch inspection at 9.30 a.m. and, knowing the old Ruislip Manor pitch, the guess would be that the match is in some doubt.  Again though, more news when we get it.