Rhys Leader

Faversham U23s Secure Hard-Fought Victory at Sheppey Faversham U23s made the trip to Sheppey on a miserable evening but returned home with all three points following a hard-fought 3–2 victory. Facing a well-organised and physical Sheppey side, Faversham knew resilience and character would be essential. The visitors started brightly, but Sheppey took the lead after 15 minutes, converting a header from a set-piece delivery following a free-kick. Faversham responded positively and drew level ten minutes later. Excellent play from Taylor Angrabeit released Ralph Fox, who calmly finished to make it 1–1. Faversham continued to threaten, striking the crossbar twice before the interval. The half-time message was to maintain the same desire and determination, with the belief that further opportunities would come. The second half remained closely contested until two decisive moments in quick succession turned the game in Faversham’s favour. In the 79th minute, Chuks drove into the box and struck towards goal, with the goalkeeper parrying the effort into the path of returning Teddy Isaac, who reacted quickest to convert and give Faversham the lead. Almost immediately from the restart, Faversham struck again. A neat midfield combination and one-two released Chuks down the wing, and his delivery found Luke Russell, who finished confidently to extend the advantage to 3–1. Sheppey pulled a goal back in the 86th minute to set up a nervy finale, but Faversham’s young side showed great composure and determination to see out the remaining minutes and secure a valuable three points. It was a real battle from start to finish, but a performance full of character, resilience and togetherness. The result was a reward for the players’ hard work and a display they can be proud of. Also a special mention to Noah Stevens the young GK making his U23 debut. ⚪⚫🦁🦁🦁 #UpTheLilywhites

U23’s get the 🌲 points from our Swale rivals @SheppeyUFC A tough match tonight but we take the points, well done to the U23s tonight ⚪️⚫️🦁🦁🦁 #UpTheLilywhites

@HerneBayFC U23s 1 - 2 Faversham U23s Faversham U23s made the short trip to Herne Bay for a local derby that had everything. Played in a high-spirited and competitive manner, both sides were determined to come away with the points. The opening half was largely a midfield battle, with both teams working hard to nullify each other and prevent any clear-cut chances. Faversham broke the deadlock through a well-worked corner. Bozhidar Kehayov caused plenty of problems in the box and reacted quickest to convert and put Faversham ahead. Herne Bay continued to push and eventually broke through, but Liam Sherriff stood tall to make an important save and preserve Faversham’s lead. However, on 43 minutes, Herne Bay drew level. A quick break and delivery into the box resulted in an unfortunate own goal from centre-half Zac Woodfine, who turned the ball into his own net on his 18th birthday. Half-time: Herne Bay U23s 1–1 Faversham U23s The second half saw Faversham look more composed as they began to play with greater confidence and move the ball around in an attempt to unlock a well-organised Herne Bay defence. With time running out, Faversham found the breakthrough in the 84th minute. Carone Scott made a determined run to the byline before delivering across the box, where 16-year-old Semilore Olaifa was on hand to convert and score his first goal for the U23s. It proved to be the decisive moment. A courageous and hard-fought three points for Faversham against a very well-drilled Herne Bay side. It was an entertaining local derby played in excellent spirit and certainly a great game for the neutral Goals: Kehayov, Olaifa #UpTheLilywhites ⚪️⚫️🦁🦁🦁

Next Up our talented U23s face @hythetown.fc at the Aquatherm, get yourself down to watch a bit of Friday night football under the lights ⚪⚫🦁🦁🦁 Entry is FREE - see you there 👊

TOWN SIGN FRONT MAN STROUTS! ⚪⚫🦁 We’re delighted to announce the arrival of front man Josh Strouts, who joins the Lilywhites from Folkestone Invicta! ✍️ Josh adds another exciting attacking option to the squad as we continue to build for the season ahead. Gaffer Steve Watt said: “I’ve known of Josh for some time and have spoken to Jay [Saunders, Folkestone Invicta Manager] about him. Josh will offer us strength and power up top, as well as goals.” Welcome to the club, Josh! 👊 ⚪⚫🦁🦁🦁 #FavershamTown #TheLilywhites #WelcomeJosh #JoshStrout #UpTheLilywhites

From the U23s to the First Team… 👏🦁🦁🦁 Faversham Town FC are delighted to announce that Ralph Fox and Lennon Diamond have been promoted to the First Team squad following their impressive performances in our pre-season and with our U23s. Both players have shown outstanding commitment, attitude and development, earning their opportunity to make the step into senior football. Everyone at the club is excited to see them continue their progress in a First Team shirt, and we look forward to watching them grasp this opportunity with both hands. They will both be available for the squad for tomorrow’s FA Cup match. At the same time, we’re pleased to confirm that Teddy Isaac’s has joined Lydd Town on a dual registration. This move will provide Teddy with valuable experience in men’s football while allowing him to continue his development as part of the Faversham Town setup. We wish Teddy every success during his time at Lydd and look forward to seeing all three young players continue to develop throughout the season. Congratulations, Ralph, Lennon and Teddy. The future is bright. And a big shout out to the U23s management. ⚪️⚫️🦁🦁🦁 #UpTheLilywhites