Rusthall are back at home on Saturday to take on a Phoenix Sports side who are rising from the flames of a disastrous start to the season and who now find themselves in a strong position having turned things around in recent weeks. Having lost 6 of their opening 7 games, they have since won 6 of the following 7 games and currently occupy 6th place in the SCEFL Premier Division table, one place ahead of Rusthall having played two more games.

League matters are forgotten for the second week in a row for The Rustics, as a second cup tie looms following their excellent penalty shoot-out win last week over Fleet Town in the FA Vase. Fleet provided stern opposition and the Rustics had to hang on for a draw before the momentous penalty shoot-out which saw all 8 takers for Rusthall score. Claudio Boakye capped a fantastic performance with a crucial save from the 16th kick to send Rusthall through to the second round, and they’ll be looking for further cup success on Saturday.

Rusthall will look to last season’s home game against Phoenix for inspiration, rather than the two most recent fixtures between the sides. Rusthall prevailed 1-0 at home last season thanks to a goal from Daniel Blunn, but were beaten 4-0 away from home while just a few weeks ago, Phoenix won comfortably again- this time 3-0. Recent changes to the squad and home advantage will give Rusthall fans hope for better this time around and progression in the Kent Senior Trophy will be the reward. Last season, Rusthall beat Sheppey Sports (6-0), Kennington (3-1), and Sutton Athletic (2-0), before exiting to Whitstable Town who went on to win the trophy, beating Punjab United in the final.

With perhaps their last of the good weather forecast on Saturday, there’s nowhere better to be than watching The Rustics in the Autumn sunshine.

Simon Howe

Any questions or queries, please email club@rusthallfc.com

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