Guernsey Press

‘Still finding our feet’ says Vance

‘IT’S not all doom and gloom,’ was the message from Guernsey FC manager Tony Vance, after watching his side concede an injury-time winner to Ashford Town in an even game at Footes Lane on Saturday.

Published
Despair for Jamie Dodd and Will Fazakerley (right) as GFC lose a point in injury time on Saturday at Footes Lane. (Picture by Luke Le Prevost, 31348685)

The 1-0 defeat briefly put the Green Lions at the foot of the table, with Merstham going into a surprise 2-1 lead away at Northwood. However, the table toppers came back to win that match, meaning Guernsey ended the day where they started, in 19th place, one place and three points above Merstham, who they play tonight.

‘Ultimately, it’s not doom and gloom,’ said Vance. ‘I know people are going to look at it and say “bottom of the table” and all that, but it’s so tight. I think if we’d won today, we’d have gone into 12th or something ridiculous like that. So, right now, I’m not worried.’

With his squad set to travel to Surrey today for that basement clash, Vance was keen to fend off any notion that the two teams’ league positions would give the match extra significance.

‘People can call it a six-pointer but it’s so early in the season,’ he said. ‘We’re still finding our feet. We’ll be OK.’

This latest defeat was, however, a bitter pill to swallow after Guernsey matched their opponents in terms of creativity, commitment and chances.

‘We didn’t deserve to lose,’ Vance said. ‘Anyone who was here can see that. I think a draw would’ve been fair.’

• Match report in Monday's Guernsey Press.