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Bly Spartans 0 Rusthall 3

Two years to the day after they suffered relegation from the same Division, Rusthall’s recovery was complete after they claimed the Division 1 West title at close rivals Bly Spartans. Under the joint managership of Rusthall’s very own “Little and Large” Robbie Forbes and Robbie Brown the clubs fortune’s have turned full circle. In 2003/04 the club won both the West Kent Challenge Shield, The Tunbridge Wells Charity Cup and gained promotion from Division 2 West, and in 2004/05, as well as the league they retained the Tunbridge Wells Charity Cup by defeating Tonbridge Invicta.

In February John Marchant ex of Tonbridge Angels and Tunbridge Wells joined the Rustics coaching team, and brought a previously missing dimension to the club. With a strong committee and a solid support the club go into the Premier League with real optimism for the future.

Saturday’s game at long time front runners Bly Spartans had become more important due to Orpington’s 7-0 defeat at already relegated Wickham Park on Thursday, which had produced a scenario where the Rustics could have lost the title had they lost and Orpington won by seven clear goals.

With Bly going down a slight slope with the wind in the first half, the Rustics had to soak up some early pressure. But the defence of Hawkins, Owen Myles, Coxon, Hassell and Hunter which has been the bedrock of the clubs success this season conceding only 17 goals in 24 league games held firm.

Rusthall should have taken the lead as early as the 10th minute, when good work by the Rustics inspirational captain Rob Perkins put in Steve Ashmore, who could not quite apply the finish. Phil Hawkins was then called on make a double save, as Bly had their best period of the match. On 25 minutes the play switched to the other end of the field where Andy Myles who was put in by Brown but shot straight at the keeper. On 30 minutes Hawkins saved well from a sweetly taken free kick, before Burren scored the important break through goal on 40 minutes when he swooped to head home Lester’s flick to put the Rustics ahead at the break.

The second half was a completely different affair with Rusthall having the benefit of the slope and the wind, they totally dominated the half, with Hawkins only touching the ball once in the whole half. On 50 minutes a fine flowing move saw Burren put in Ashmore. Ashmore carried the ball 15 yards before blasting the ball into the right corner of the net from 20 yards to make it 2-0. On 55 minutes Myles latched on to a poor back pass steered the ball past the keeper but just wide of the post.

The superb playing service at Bly, was enabling the Rustics to play their pass and move game. Further chances fell to Burren and Myles, before the title was sealed after 65 minutes, Burren cleverly beat the offside trap carried the ball 40 yards went round the goal keeper and calmly slotted home. On 70 minutes Evans replaced Ashmore and Millins replaced Myles as the Rustics continued to create chances. Before the end Burren could have completed his hatrick and Perkins had a chance to add to his 17 goals from midfield but both blasted the ball over the bar.

Over the course of the season, Rusthall have taken 6 points of second placed Orpington, 4 points off third placed Bly, 4 points off 4th placed Halls. With a record like that I think few could argue that the best team won the league.

Tunbridge Wells Charity Cup Final
Rusthall 2 Tonbridge Invicta 0

Rusthall won the Tunbridge Wells Charity Senior Cup for the fourth time in five years with a comfortable victory over Tonbridge Invicta at Culverden Stadium writes Andrew Newman. With the Kent County League Division One West title all but in the bag, the Rustics fielded a stronger side than anticipated ahead of what initially was expected to be a championship decider two days later at Bly Spartans. However a substitutes bench that included co-manager Rob Brown, Dave Burren and skipper Rob Perkins highlighted the strength in depth at the club as they controlled the ninety minutes in front of a good-sized crowd. All three appeared after the hour mark by which point they led 2-0 and the game was safe. Martin Millins opened the scoring in the first half after a mazy run that led defenders trailing in his wake before a surprisingly cool finish left the Invicta goalkeeper little chance. The second arrived shortly after the interval when a good move put in Steve Ashmore and he curled his shot into the bottom corner. Invicta could not be faulted for effort and did force Phil Hawkins into one good save but the parsimonious Rustics defence marshalled by Dave Welch ensured yet another clean sheet was kept.

Fleetdown 1 Rusthall 5
Rusthall 2 Wickham Park 2

Rusthall's 4 points from two games over the weekend have left them on the verge of securing the Division 1 West title. Dave Burren's last minute goal against Wickham Park earned the Rustics a valuable point on Saturday, and a superb 5-1 victory away at Fleetdown on Monday

combined with Orpington's win at Bly, has left the Rustics 3 points clear of Bly and 15 goals better off, with the two sides meeting on Saturday. Orpington can not be completely ruled out of the equation although they are reliant on the Rustics losing at Bly and them making up 18 goals and winning their last three games.

Saturday's game against Wickham Park was a tight affair with Park battling to avoid relegation. Rusthall dominated the early play and should have taken the lead as early as the 7th minute when Burren flicked on Perkins corner to Balmer who's shot from 2 yards came back off the post. On 30 minutes against the run of play Wickham took the lead. Good work down their right wing saw a deep cross met by their centre forward would thumped a well placed header past the despairing Hawkins. Rusthall continued to press but snatched at any chances that did come their way

The second half started well for the Rustics and on 55 minutes they equalised, when good work from Burren down the right saw his deep cross met at the far post by Ashmore who steered the ball home. Rusthall where now on the ascendancy and on the hour mark Andy Myles replaced Coles made an immediate impact. However with Rusthall becoming more dominant Wickham Park again took the lead on 70 minutes following a silly free kick given away by the Rusthall defence. A well flighted free kick was meet at the back post by the Wickham substitute who headed into the roof of the net. Rusthall piled forward in search of the goal that they desperately needed. Just when it looked like time had beaten them Burren drilled home to level the scores. There was still time for Perkins to drill a gilt edged chance over the bar, but that would have been harsh on Wickham Park.

On Monday the Rustics travelled to Fleetdown, top of the table on goal difference. They found themselves 1-0 down after two minutes when Hassell conceded a penalty. However as the game progressed, Rusthall class began to show through and on 25 minutes Hassell drove a free kick past the Fleetdown keeper to make it 1-1. On 30 minutes the Rustics where ahead, when Andy Myles played in Rob Perkins who cleverly lobbed the goalkeeper from 35 yards. The lead was further increased on 35 minutes when Coxon headed home Ashmore's cross.

The second half continued in the same vein as the first with Rusthall knocking the ball around nicely and dominating the game. On 55 minutes they increased their lead when another free kick from Hassell was tipped on to the bar and rebounded straight to Ashmore who headed the ball home. The scoring was completed in the last minute when man of the match Andy Myles lobbed an inviting ball into Burren's path which the big centre forward drilled home. With Bly losing at home to Orpington, the Rustics are three points and 15 goals ahead of Bly, meaning that they would have to lose 8-0 to drop to second place.

Rusthall 3 Eynsford 0

Rusthall turned in a top performance against Eynsford on Tuesday night. The Rustics should have taken the lead as early as the 2nd minute when following good work from Ian Balmer, Dave Burren just failed to apply the finish. Rusthall continued to press with both Perkins and Brown going close before the scoring was opened on 20 minutes. Ben Evans missing for the last 10 games returned with a man of the match performance, and it was Evans who drilled the ball home from 15 yards after the excellent Hassell played him in. Rusthall continued to press and on 30 minutes increased their lead when following good work from Burren, Perkins drilled the ball home from 8 yards. The second half continue as the first had ended with Rusthall on the attack, Smithers replaced Brown and made an immediate impact. The result was sealed on 55 minutes when good inter play between Burren and Perkins led to Perkins squaring the ball to Balmer who finished neatly in the corner. Coles replaced Lester and the fit again Thompson replaced Perkins as the Rustics defence comfortably played out the remaining time without keeper Hawkins having to make a save in the whole 90 minutes. Next on the fixture list is a home game against Wickham Park on Saturday, whilst Bly take on the improving Bromlieans Sports fresh with their new signings from Orpington.

Pembury 0 Rusthall 1

Rusthall all but relegated Pembury from Division One West after beating their local rivals at Woodside to strengthen their own title claims writes Andrew Newman. Coming out of the blocks quicker the visitors played their best football in the first half and had threatened on a couple of occasions before Martin Millins put over a great cross for Rob Perkins to head emphatically home. The goalscorer then embarked on a fevered celebration, which seemed to involve the fact that his highlighted hair was a good deal more impressive than anything the home team support could muster. A number of prods of the Perkins barnet made the point clear to all at the ground though there were some dissenting voices from the slightly miffed Hawkins/Lester/Millins camp, who all felt their own coiffeurs warranted closer inspection before a final decision was made.

Once play resumed the Rustics continued to monopolise possession until the break but in the second period did not enjoy such hegemony as Pembury realised that this really was their final chance to avoid relegation. Alun Evans and Tim Marshall increased their efforts up front and suddenly the Nick Coxon/Phil Hassell partnership at the back for Rusthall had their hands full. Hawkins was called upon to make a good save from an Andy Lindsay header while substitute Steve Waterman saw his header cleared off the line.

At the other end the visitors could have increased their lead but a poor final ball was mainly to blame as promising situations were squandered. At the final whistle there could be little complaint at the outcome and the Rustics trooped back to the changing rooms to compare hair-care products.

Eynsford 1 Rusthall 2

The Rustics kept up the winning habit, with a scrappy 2-1 win away at Eynsford on Tuesday. The Rustics started poorly particularly Lester who had what only can be described as a “mare” for which he duly won the spoon. As the first half progressed the Rustic gradually got on top and should have taken the lead when good work from Millins and Burren produced a cross which Perkins blasted at the keeper from 1 yard, producing a miraculous save from the keeper.

However the goal was not long coming when following good work from Burren, Perkins poked home from 2 yards on 20 minutes. Eynsford equalised on 35 minutes when a mix up in the Rustic defence allowed the centre forward a chance which he firmly planted in the roof of the net.

Rusthall responded well and on 40 minutes when following a good run Burren finished well to give the Rustics a lead at the break.

The second half followed the same pattern as the first with Rusthall pressing but good chances going begging. Both Perkins and Millins had good chances before Evans hit the post on 80 minutes. However the defence held firm and the win was sealed.

The win puts the Rustics in a good position now second in the league 4 points behind Bly with a game in hand. Bly having had a 13 point lead at one stage face difficult trips to both Holmesdale and the improving Bromelians before they take on title contenders Orpington and then the Rustics on 7th May .

Halls 0 Rusthall 1

Rusthalls 9th consecutive league clean sheet and a second half wonder strike from Joint Manager Brown kept the Rusthall bandwagon rolling with a fine win away to second placed Halls.

The Rustics having recently ground out results returned to sparkling form and although winning only by the odd goal dominated for the majority of this match. Rusthalls defence and Keeper Hawkins were generally untroubled, and this laid a platform for some fine midfield and forward work. Dave Burren was denied by a fine save when only 2 yards out after good wing play and Coxon headed just wide from a corner soon after, the Rustics continued to create but but were perhaps guilty of over playing in and around the box.

The second half was much the same Burren again going close the keeper again denying him with an acrobatic save, and Millins had a chip pushed onto the bar and out, but Rob Brown came to the rescue and scored his first goal of the season from 25 yards out when Mark Lester neatly laid the ball on with only 15 mins to go.

Halls then rallied and came close from a corner keeper Hawkins pushing the inswinger against the bar and Brown clearing off the line. Rusthall then made some enforced changes after some clumsy and frustrated tackling by Halls but this steadied the ship and Rusthall emerged worthy winners.

Putlands 1 Rusthall 3

Rusthall visited Division 2 East side Putlands in the semi final of the Tunbridge Wells Charity Cup on Saturday. Missing Balmer, Brown, Thompson, Myles, Smithers, and Coles Rusthall were forced to draft in Ben Evans, Forbes and Rusbridge. It was Evans who created the first Rusthall chance on 5 minutes when clever inter play with Lester presented a chance that on the uneven pitch ran away from Millins.

Rusthall had the better of the early exchanges, with both Burren and Perkins forcing good saves from the goalkeeper. On 20 minutes the Putlands goalkeeper was called into action again when Millins was put in by Coxon. On 23 Minutes the Rustics took a deserved lead when a throw from Ashmore was flicked on by Burren and Rob Perkins nipped in to tuck the ball under the on rushing keeper.

This spurred Rusthall on and they increased the lead just before half time when a deep cross from Aaron Austin was met at the far post by Dave Burren, who buried a header into the back of the net.

The second half continued with Rusthall dominating, until Putlands got back into the game on 55 minutes. A long goal kick was flicked on by the ever dangerous Lewis Howard, leaving the Rustic defence flat footed. The ball fell neatly into the path of the left winger, who finished well drilling the ball past the stranded Hawkins. This encouraged Putlands and they dominated the next 15 minutes. On 65 minutes the Rustics conceded a dubious penalty given by the linesman not the referee, but a smart save to his right by Hawkins kept out Howard’s kick.

On 75 minutes Hunter replaced Millins and Forbes came on for his 500th club appearance replacing Burren. On 82 minutes Ashmore had the chance to seal the game when he met Perkins cross at the back post, but his shot hit the side netting. Rusthall did however wrap up the tie in the 88th minute when Perkins set joint manager Forbes free. Forbes fine shot was saved well to his left by the goalkeeper but fell nicely into the path of Lester who calmly slotted the ball home.

The Rustics meet Tonbridge Invicta in the final.

Rusthall 2 Larkfield & NW 0

This was the Rustics ninth league clean sheet, and it was this that really ensured the Rustics win. The first half was a tense affair with few chances made, but it was Larkfied who came the closest with a clear header from a corner falling just wide of the post,Ian Balmer also missed a good chance after good work from Steve Ashmore but Rusthalls counter attacking style was unable to find a way through the stubborn Larkfield defence.

Rob Perkins scored Rusthalls first ten minutes after the break with his first ever header, neatly finished at the back post after a fine Ashmore cross. Top scorer Burren added to this soon after slotting passed the on rushing keeper when one on one, with Larkfield appealing in vain for offside. Larkfield then rallied and should have pulled one back when a header was missed at the back post after a break away. The Rustics then composed themselves and played the remainder of the game without creating or conceding much pressure.

Andy Newman present at both the Rustics last to games , guest writes the reports

Rusthall 2 Orpington 0

Rusthall 0 Fleetdown 0

Rusthall made up for a disappointing goalless draw in Division One West by winning two days later against title rivals Orpington writes Andrew Newman. The Rustics played both games at Jockey Farm with Fleetdown United the visitors last Saturday. Numerous missed chances cost the hosts as Fleetdown offered little up front. Their goalkeeper performed heroics in the first half saving well from Aaron Austin and Steve Ashmore but after the break was not called into action as Rusthall failed to hit the target from several good opportunities. On Easter Monday, Orpington arrived having already played two games in the previous three days. A physical game saw the visitors start strongly and hit the woodwork but it was Rob Perkins that put Rusthall ahead before the break. Perkins then set up Ashmore with a fine pass in the second half and he found the net with aplomb. Four points over the Easter break keeps up the Rustics’ hopes of the title and promotion but there remain a number of hard games ahead in a relatively short space of time.

Rusthall 4 APM Mears 0

This was a tight and fairly tense game until the last 15 mins when a substitution and formation alteration changed the face of the match. APM, came to Jockey Farm with a defensive and resolute set up, which although threatened little frustrated the Rustics for long periods of the match. Rusthall came close a few times playing down the slope in the first half and Rob Perkins came closest with a swivel and shot from 5 yards which was blocked by goalkeeper and defence combined, before this APM had missed their best chance a midfielder pulling the ball wide when put through with only Hawkins to beat.

In the second half playing up the hill, Rusthall settled better and started creating more chances but the final ball was never quite good enough. Joint Manager Forbes brought on Burren who's extra pace and height immediately started causing problems, and soon after Perkins had earnt a free kick on the edge of the APM box. Phil Hassell struck a sweet free kick which hit the post and fell to the onrushing Burren who buried the ball from 6 yards. This opened the floodgates and soon after fellow sub Lee Thompson scored a fine back post header from Burrens cross. On 85 mins Phil Hassell lined up another free kick which he drove straight into the wall, the ball rebounded back to him which he then hit an unstoppable volley into the top corner, the scoring finished with Ian Balmer slotting the ball past the keeper when put through by Perkins.

Larkfield & NH 0 Rusthall 1

Rusthall put on a competent and organised performance to beat fellow title hopefuls Larkfield in their own backyard. The first half was a fairly even affair Larkfield looking dangerous from set pieces early on, the Rustics then gaining a foothold and controlling the remainder of the half , clear cut chances fell to both Millins and Ashmore who both snatched at chances on the bobbly pitch when through on goal and Coxon also missed a clear header from a corner, Larkfields chances were few and far between, the Rustic defence rocklike and showing why they are the meanest defence in the league.

The only goal was scored in the 51st minute when the otherwise quiet Millins produced a moment of quality, skinning a defender before putting the ball on a plate for Steve Ashmore to bury a powerful header from close range. Larkfield became frustrated as the game wore on, battling well but giving possesion away cheaply, and this eventually culminated with a sending off in the final 10 mins when influential sub Andy Myles was kicked off the ball, giving the ref an easy decision to make, which effectively ended the game.

Rusthall 6 Holmesdale 0

With the Rusthall pitch in fine condition the game against Holmesdale was able to take place. Going down the slope in the first half the Rustics took the lead as early as the first minute. An attack down the right from Ian Balmer produced a superb save from the Holmesdale keeper. From the resulting corner Nick Coxon headed the ball on to Martin Millins who headed in. On 15 minutes Rusthall should have increased their lead when following good work from Millins, first Perkins and then Evans missed easy chances. Evans redeemed himself a minute later heading in Lester’s fine cross to make the score 2-0. Rusthall where totally dominating the half and should have increased their lead further when Perkins put Millins in on 30 minutes, but Millins stabbed his shot just past the post.

On 35 minutes the referee, who along with his linesman where to be the centre of controversy all afternoon sent off the Holmesdale centre midfielder, although this did not affect the result of the game it certainly ended it as a contest. On 40 minutes the returning Dave Burren replaced the injured Ben Evans for Rusthall, and two minutes later Rusthall where denied a certain penalty when Owen Myles legs where taken from him in the area.

The second half started much the same as the first had finished, after 50 minutes following good work from Ashmore and Hunter, Perkins delivered a front post cross that Burren was able to tap home to make it 3-0. More good work from Burren on 58 minutes was to lead to the Rustic fourth goal, when after he was felled in the area, Millins converted a solid penalty. Smithers replaced Hunter and Ronaldson replaced Millins as Rusthall continued to press.

The fifth goal came on 73 minutes, when man of the match Balmer got the goal he deserved blasting home at the far post. The scoring was completed on 80 minutes when following a long kick from keeper Hawkins, Ronaldson produced a vintage chip from 25 yards to complete the victory. The highlight of the match was to come on 82 minutes though when following good work from Balmer and Ronaldson, Burren put the ball over the bar from one yard out.

Rusthall 0 Belvedere 2

Missing three key players through the spine of the team was to cost the Rustics dear on Saturday, with Belvedere coming away from Jockey Farm as deserved 2-0 victors. Going up the slope in the first half, Rusthall started slowly with Belvedere, first to the ball, stronger in the tackle and more determined. As the half progressed Rusthall where unable to get their neat passing game going, as their failure to control the first time pass was evident. The Rustics only real chance of the first half fell to Ben Evans, who was brought down by the Belvedere goalkeeper inside the box, but the referee waved play on.

On 42 minutes Belvedere took the lead, a neat through ball was missed by the stand in sweeper Lester allowing the Belvedere forward to cross for the centre forward to plant the ball past a hapless Hawkins. Belvedere increased their lead with the final kick of the first half. A corner was cleared to the edge of the Rustics box, where the unmarked forward was able to blast an excellent shot into the corner of the Rustics net.

The second half brought a much better performance from Rusthall. They began competing physically, winning second balls and creating chances. Martin Millins went close on 55 minutes firing over the bar following good work from Ian Balmer, but the best chance of the game fell to Rob Perkins on 70 minutes, when his shot from inside the six yard box was brilliantly saved by the Belvedere keeper. Rusthall continued to press and the introduction of Smithers, Austin and Andy Myles gave them fresh impetus. Their final chance was to fall to Ben Evans on 80 minutes when his solo run took him into the box and his well placed shot was heading for the bottom corner before the goalkeeper again managed to get down and tip the ball onto the post.

Saturdays game at Pembury was called off much to the dismay of club officials who visited the Pembury ground to find the pitch in good condition. Walking from one end to the other and across the pitch produced only minimal mud on the shoes. One official describe the pitch as the perfect playing surface for football.

Rusthall 1 Pembury 0

Rusthall came away winners against local rivals Pembury, in a well contested and keenly fought derby. The early exchanges of the match went Rusthalls way Burren and Millins looking dangerous but being well marshalled by the Pembury defence, as the game progressed Pembury evened things out and the game became a little scrappy without many clear chances at either end, but a moment of individual skill tipped the balance when Rob Perkins picked the ball up at the half way line ran past several Pembury players and stroked the ball past the diving keeper.

In the second half Rusthall played down the slope and dominated possession and chances for the opening 20 mins, Millins forcing the Pembury keeper to a fine save when one on one. Pembury to combat Rusthalls possession changed formation, crowding the midfield which produced quick results, a penalty was awarded when Myles was adjudged to have brought down Pemburys young forward. Phil Hawkins with little to do for long periods proved the man of the moment saving and holding the penalty kick, which effectively took the wind out of Pemburys sails, the remaining time was end to end with Rusthall not being able to finish some goal line scrambles and then playing out the last minutes in safety Rob Perkins goal sealed the points for the Rustics on Saturday. A report will appear Monday (pm).

Bromleians Sports 0 Rusthall 4

Rusthall bounced back from last weeks debacle with a return to form and a good win away to Bromleians Sports. Rusthall signalled their intent from early on, Ian Balmer back from injury going close early on. But it was Rob Perkins who broke the deadlock after 15 mins finishing from close range after good work by Mark Lester on the byline. Lester got the second a neat drive from just inside the box after the influential Balmer laid the ball into his path. Last weeks shaky defending this week looked rock solid, Nick Coxon winning all in the air and Hassell sweeping neatly behind him.

In the second half though it was returning goalkeeper Hawkins who assisted the third goal, driving the ball upfield only for the defending centreback to knock the ball into Millins path, who cleverly chipped the ball over the keeper to run onto and roll into the gaping net. Millins again was involved in the 4th goal, the Rustics breaking into the box and Millins laying on a goal for Balmer with a cheeky backpass. Phil Hawkins made a fine save in the final minutes to keep his clean sheet when a Bromleian was put through one on one from a free kick, which kept both defence and attack happy with a good away win.

Bridon Ropes 4 Rusthall 1

The rustics saved their worst display of the season for arguably the most important game thus far. A lacklustre uncommitted, and weak performance was probably the best way to describe Rusthalls efforts but take nothing away from Bridon as they were everything Rusthall were not. From the very kick off Rusthall were poor giving the ball away losing most challenges, so it wasn’t much of a surprise when Bridon scored, a penalty, after the rapid Bridon winger was felled in the box by Coxon. Rusthall unfortunately were not galvanised by this and Bridons continued hard work frustrated. In the second half the Rustics applied at little pressure early on only to be caught on the counterattack which the lone Bridon striker finished very well. Two soon became three when Smithers brought down the substitute forward with a poor challenge and another penalty was duly converted. Millins scored a consolation, a fine turn and volley, but the final word was Bridon’s when again on the break a forward broke through a scored a soft goal passed the despairing James Larkin.

Kent Intermediate Shield Quarter Final

Hollands & Blair 2 Rusthall 1 AET

Rusthall were knocked out of the cup in the first half of extra time after a well balanced and tense previous 90 mins. This was a game of 2 systems Hollands loaded midfield and possession play against Rusthalls expansive counter attacking. It was Rusthall who took the initiative in the first half attacking wide and getting in many crosses and shots but not too many on target, while Hollands played keep ball generally in their own half but breaking forward with menace on the odd occasion. The Rustics continued applying pressure and eventually scored when Burren was put through on an awkward angle to produce a fine finish across the keeper. But Hollands patient approach soon started to trouble Rusthall and when they brought on a new forward the game changed, the Rustics now pressured and tiring from chasing the ball. The equaliser was a fine volley from a cross, and Hollands really should have put the game to bed with a few chances towards the end which Phil Hawkins saved expertly. Strangely enough in the first ten mins of extra time roles reversed and it was Rusthall who should have finished the game but chances from Shane Hickmott and Austin who really should have squared instead of shot did not find the net and Hollands effectively finished the game with their first extra time effort, the Rustics tried to reply but legs were gone and Hollands defended the final 10 mins with ease.

Rusthall 6 Ditton 0

This match was over before it began when Ditton arrived with only 10 men against a Rusthall team unbeaten in 12 games. The Rustics were 2-0 up at half time Martin Millins scoring both, one toe punt from 8 yards the other a slotted penalty in what was the worst first half performance the Rustics have put in this season.

In the second half Rusthall played much better, but once the third and fourth goals had been scored by a plump Mark Lester, who had only just appeared as sub after an injury lay off, Ditton gave up the ghost and allowed the Rustics all the time and possession they could possibly want. This inevitably lead to a couple more goals Millins finishing his hatrick with another penalty, and Burren tapping in from a Lee Thomson cross.

Orpington 1 Rusthall 5

Saturday saw the Rustics take on one of the title favourites in the shape of Orpington. Missing key players Balmer, Austin, Lester and Smithers through injury, managers Brown and Forbes drafted in John Ronaldson for his first start of the season.

The Rustics came flying out of the traps and were 1-0 up after 5 minutes, good work by Perkins and Millins down the right saw Steve Ashmore arrive in the box late on to plant the ball in the left corner of the net. Two minutes later the lead was increased a quick break saw Millins put Perkins in, to finish calmly under pressure.

It was 3-0 after 15 minutes, Ronaldson put Millins away down the right, Millins cross into the middle was met by Ashmore who at the vital moment was pushed in the back and the referee awarded a penalty which Millins calmly converted.

On 25 minutes the Orpington midfield player was sent from the pitch after he raised his arm in a challenge in front of the referee. The game was now beginning to boil over and the referee did well to keep things under control. The Rustics however kept their composure and concentrated on their football despite goading from the Orpington crowd. Half time arrived with Rusthall in total control and playing some lovely pass and move football

The second half was to begin where the first half ended, after 47 minutes, good inter play between Ronaldson and Myles, saw Myles whip in a devastating cross from the right which Burren powered home with a bullet header. Rusthall then took their foot off the gas and allowed Orpington back into the game. The Orpington forwards who looked lively and dangerous and will obviously cause teams problems had a spell of play, but where unable to convert any of the chances they had until the 61st minute when they reduced the deficit to 4-1.

This spurred the Rustics on and both Burren and Millins had one on ones with the goal keeper to increase the Rustics lead. On 65 minutes Thompson replaced the flu suffering Millins and McKenna replace the “old” Ronaldson. On 75 minutes Perkins made a fine run down the right before cutting in and just shooting past the right hand post. As the game wore on both Thompson and Ashmore had further chances to increase the lead, but the final word was left to Burren who broke away on 83 minutes, calmly drew the keeper and then scuffed the ball into the bottom right hand corner.

A thoughly convincing and deserved victory against a good side who will take points off a lot of teams. Special mention to Nick Coxon and Stuart Hunter who both had excellent games, to the midfield who were superb and to the front two particularly Martin who had a dominate afternoon.

The year ends with the side well placed in an even league, in the quarter final of three competitions, the Kent Intermediate Shield, West Kent Challenge Shield and the Tunbridge Wells Cup and having only lost 2 games in 2004.

Merry Xmas to you all

Rusthall 4 Hawkenbury 1

Hawkenbury made the worst possible start against Kent County League opponents Rusthall by starting with only 10 men and conceding within the first 10 mins, to a Dave Burren lob when one on one with the keeper. By the time parity in numbers were restored the Rustics were 3 up and cruising, Stuart Hunter having scored from a corner and Martin Millins opening his Rusthall account with a penalty after Burren was felled in the area. Hawkenbury hit back when their forward sprung the offside trap and finished neatly to make it 4-1 at the half.

The second half was a bit of a non entity Hawkenbury battling admirably and Rusthall having taken the foot of the gas somewhat,but both teams created a few chances all of which were executed poorly. The game, which until then had been played in good spirit was spoiled when Lee Thomson was sent off for retaliating after some niggly work by the persistent fouling Duncan Chater, and the game petered out from there on in.

Lydd 1 Rusthall 4

Rusthall saved their best performance of the season thus far for Premier division Lydd, and made light work of the trip to the coast. Rusthall went into the break a goal to the good, a towering header scored by Nick Coxon from a corner, which was the result of insistent attacking pressure. Phil Hawkins had only one save to make at the feet of the dangerous Lydd forward but otherwise Phil Hassell marshalled the impressive Rustic defence without fault and the midfield 2 of Rusthall dominated Lydd’s midfield 3 which gave the Rustics wide and forward players the necessary space to create havoc which they did for all the first half .

Rusthall continued the second half with the same dominance they had had in the first. Lydd changed their system to counter the dominance and for 10 mins it worked until the persistent Perkins scored a low shot after a neat one two with the back in form Austin, who also set up Rusthalls 3rd a low cross which Dave Burren squeezed under the goalkeeper. Lydd were now thoroughly frustrated, and this resulted in a sending off for mouthing to the ref. Martin Millins a danger throughout, now moved to right wing with Lee Thomson going to the forward line, and it was this partnership that created the 4th goal, Millins with a jinking run crossing for Thomson to nip in front of the despairing keepers lunge. Lydd scored the customary consolation goal in the last moments, but it was the Rustics who ultimately came away smiling.

Rusthall 5 Atcost 1

Rusthall comfortably progress to the next round of the Tunbridge Wells Charity Cup with a convincing win against Premier league opponents Atcost on Saturday. Kicking uphill in the first hall the Rustics were to dominate from the word go, and took the lead as early as the 10th minute when following good work from Owen Myles, Martin Millins delivered a fine cross for Dave Burren to power a header home. It was Burren who increased the lead on 20 minutes, when he ran on to a fine through ball from Hunter to slot past the Atcost keeper. As the half wore on slick passing by the home side pinned Atcost back in their own half and produced further chances which went begging.

The second half continued in the same vein with Rob Perkins tapping home the third on 55 minutes following good work by Balmer and Burren. Atcost then enjoyed their best spell of the game which resulted in them reducing the deficit on 65 minutes, when their left winger shot home from an acute angle. This drove the Rustics on and when Burren's shot hit the post on 77 minutes Lee Thompson was on hand to apply the finishing touch. On 80 minutes fine individual work by Millins say him beat four men cut inside and chip his shot against the post. However the final word was fitting left to man of the match Burren, who scored the best of his three goals in the 85 minute, drilling home a left foot shot following good work by Ashmore and Perkins.

Rusthall 1 APM 2

On a miserable, wet cold and even snowy afternoon Rusthall were dumped out of the inter regional cup by a resolute and determined APM side. The first half was fairly even possession wise but it was APM who had the cutting edge and went ahead after 20mins a fine run and finish by their striker. Soon after a second was added a near post header from a corner looping over the stranded Phil Hawkins who had only a few minutes previously made a important save when he robbed the APM striker at his feet when clean through. Rusthall were also creating chances and Rob Perkins had a goal disallowed for offside, which was swiftly followed by a Lee Thomson headed goal from a cross by Steve Ashmore.

In the second half the Rustics played down the slope and with the snow at their backs played much better than they had in the first half. Rusthall dominated the half but could not provide the finishing touch, though APM’s determined defending was the root of this. The best chance fell to Ian Balmer who when through one on one was foiled by a neat but easy save from the keeper. Martin Millins was introduced back in the fold with 20 mins to go and although he looked sharp and fit, could not make the necessary difference to find the equaliser and APM went away buoyed by their battling and winning performance.

Rusthall 2 Holmesdale 1

Rusthall continued their defence of the West Kent Challenge Shield in shaky stlye beating Holmesdale in what was a poor match to watch .

Holmesdale were the better team in the first half and deserved to go in 1 up at the break the goal coming from a fine 20 yard strike from Holmesdales influential playmaker.

Half time gave the Rustics time to reorganise and they came out in the second with much more drive and enthusiasm. This soon led to an equaliser, a penalty dispatched by Dave Burren after he was himself shoved over in the box. This was a game with few clear cut chances and little quality so when new signing Ian Balmer set Rob Perkins up and he shot in from the edge of the box this was a definite highlight in the gloom. The remainder of the game was seen out with Holmesdale pushing players forward and Rusthalls defence coping without any major problems, but Holmesdale will still have gone home feeling a little hard done by.

APM 1 Rusthall 3

Kent Intermediate Challenge Shield

Rusthall got back to winning ways with a composed and assured away performance. Tactics were changed and the Rustics lined up with an unusual 3-4-3 formation which upset APM from early on. Rob Perkins was the scorer of the Rustics first goal a fine turn and shot from 18 yards after some sustained pressure. Rusthall had the upperhand for the majority of the first half, Dave Burren and Lee Thomson proving a continued thorn in the defences side and when APM did trouble the rustics defence it was only really at set pieces.

The second half though was far more exciting as the game opened up - with APM pushing players forward, gaps opened in the home sides defence which substitute Andy Myles exploited excellently on two occasions. His first, a delicate chip over the keeper when put through one against one , his second again put through but this time drilled past the keeper. Andy was also unfortunate not to get his third, hitting the post with a fine shot soon after. APM were not without chances of their own, but Rustics new look defence held firm with Owen Myles and Stuart Hunter looking well assured, but as the Rustics carried on pushing forward APM scored a late consolation after a rebounded shot fell to the grateful forward(PM)

Rusthall 1 Halls 1

Rusthall missed the opportunity of moving into the top three, when a late penalty was missed by the usually reliable Brown. In a game which Rusthall dominated the chances and territory it was again a case of two points lost, though the Rustics are by no means out of the title race.

Rusthall started well and immediately started putting the Halls keeper under pressure, though no clear cut chances were made, but it was to be Halls who drew first blood from a well worked set piece, Sperring finishing cooly from a flick on.

In the second half again the Rustics applied pressure from the off, and after spurning chances were eventually rewarded with a goal by Steve Ashmore. Chances were cleared off the line, and the goalkeeper for Halls held strong. In the face of some fierce and often foul challenges the Rustics upped the tempo further brought on another striker and after heavy pressure were finally, in the last minutes, awarded a fortuitous penalty for a handball. The goalkeeper made a tremendous save from Browns penalty, which then rebounded to Burren who couldn’t quite seal the match and ended up another missed opportunity for the Rustics.

APM 2 Rusthall 2

Rusthall drew 2-2 at APM, but will consider it 2 points dropped. The Rustics totally dominated the first half and where ahead at the break 2-0 through goals from Ashmore and Perkins. APM reduced the defecit on 62 minutes with a wonder goal from 35 yards. on 75 minutes APM dew level, when the referee adjudged Rob Browns perfectly timed tackle to be a foul and awarded a penalty, that was duly converted. The Rustics continued to press and McKenna had what looked like a good goal disallowed and Hickmott had two efforts well saved by the keeper. (for full report see Friday's Courier)

Rusthall 2 Old Bromliens 0

Rusthall began the defence of the Challenge shield trophy, with almost their full squad available and produced their best performance thus far, the scoreline may not reflect this, but the manner in which the Rustics went about the job was impressive. Rob Perkins coming back into the team after serving a 5 match ban made an immediate impact scoring just before the half after being put in one on one by Ben Evans. Many more chances were missed but the approach play - beginning with the skilful Rustic defensive was a joy to watch. In the second half things continued much the same and as a testament to the way the game was being played it was the Bromlien keeper who would lay claim to m.o.m. But even he couldn’t withstand the tide of the Rustic attack and it was again Ben Evans who carved out the goal slipping the ball past the onrushing keeper for Dave Burren to tap home. Old Bromliens then loaded the forward line and played route one, and enjoyed their best spell, and really should have got a consolation, missing a header when it was easier to score, but Rusthall held on and Lee Thomson missed a guilt edged chance with only the keeper to beat just before the end.

Wickham Park 3 Rusthall 3

This game could not have started any worse for the Rustics when they conceded straight from (their) kick off , a poor back pass into the path of the grateful Park forward who rounded Rustic keeper Larkin to take the lead within 30 seconds. New signing Ben Evans soon restored parity scoring the first of his m.o.m hatrick on his debut, a through ball by Steve Ashmore cooly finished by rounding the keeper. Rusthall then took control of the half and Evans scored his second outstripping the ageing Park centrehalf for pace and again rounding the keeper to slot home.

The second half was a more even affair, Rusthall playing up the slope counterattacked, Park applying pressure down the flanks, and it was from that pressure that Park equalised, a driven cross rebounded around Rusthalls defence and although the ball was cleared from the line the referee judged the ball to have crossed the line, the final touch an unlucky own goal by Coxon. Again the Rustics took the lead Evans shooting from the edge of the box, the ball taking a slight defection and beating the stranded keeper, but Wickham refused to lie down and the equaliser was a fine drilled shot in from 25 yards. Rusthall pushed for the win and came very close within the final minutes but it was not to be and this was definitely a case of 2 points dropped.

Holmesdale 1 Rusthall 2

After a loss and a draw Rusthall showed great bouncebackability to win away at Holmesdale. Both teams were evenly matched and this was particularly evident in the first half , as no goals were scored but good chances created, the best falling to Rusthalls' Steve Ashmores head which he was unable to convert. It was the defences of both sides which held the upper hand in the first half.

The second half was more open with both teams pushing on and taking more risks, Rusthalls new look defence with m.o.m Mark Lester marshalling it looked solid throughout, and with that base Rusthall exerted pressure. From a corner Aaron Austin and Phil Hassell carved out an opening which Hassell then buried in the bottom corner. The Rustics soon scored again Colin Smithers persistence winning the ball on half way,which he then slipped to Dave Burren who opened his legs outran the defence and culed the ball around the on-rushing keeper with great aplomb. Holmesdale to their credit were not finished and 15 mins from time the hapless Owen Myles was sent off for saving on the line after Holmesdale were through on goal. This led to a little shuffling around and Martin Millins was welcomed back into the fold to inject some welcome energy. Rusthall held on for the final moments and Phil Hawkins - solid throughout - produced a reflex save of some quality to ensure the win for the Rustics.

Rusthall 1 Bly Spartans 1

Rusthall started the game brightly creating two very good chances in the opening encounters the best of which Lee Thomson chipped over the goalkeeper and wide when through one on one. The bright start soon deteriorated and Bly started fashioning chances of their own mostly from the swift centre forward and the ball over the top which often caught out the Rustic back line, but for all the good chances Bly created it was a soft goal which opened the scoring, when a slow shot across the goal mouth somehow creeped under the disappointed Phil Hawkins in goal.

A few position changes and a rollicking at half time changed the complexion of the match. Rusthall came out charging Lee Thomson quickly equalising with a fine back post header from a great Austin cross. Rusthall started to take control, but the more they did the more Bly broke up the game with reckless tackling and it was no surprise when one of their players was sent off with 20 mins to go. But as is often the case this galvanised the 10 men of Bly and chances fell at both ends with neither teams taking advantage, and on the balance of both halfs a draw was probably a fair result.

Belvedere 2 Rusthall 1

Rusthall were beaten by themselves against a workmanlike Belvedere side. Defending the hill in the first half the Rustics looked comfortable and took the lead when Aaron Austin went through against the keeper and rebounded a shot in.

The second half should have been a formality playing down the considerable slope a goal to the good, but complacency set in. Belvedere know how to play up their slope and soon equalised with the long ball over the top which Rusthalls defence failed to clear and headed back into the path of a grateful Belvedere forward. Five minutes later and a misunderstanding between the Rustic centre backs allowed Belvederes' forward in for his second and ultimately the winner. Rusthall now pressurised for the final half hour but no real quality was shown and apart from Stuart Hunter missing from 3 yards in the closing minutes they didn't really come very close, and Belvedere finished as worthy winners.

Rusthall 4 Bromleians Sports 0

On a very hot afternoon Rusthall continued where they had left off last season with a solid performance and win. Four new signings coupled with the majority of last seasons squad proved too hot for the Bromleians too handle.

The first 20 mins were fairly cagey as you would expect for the first game, but once the Rustics settled into a rhythm there was only going to be one winner. Rob Perkins scored the first nicking the ball past the onrushing keeper after a threaded through ball. Rusthall continued to press on and were rewarded when Phil Hassell curled in a fine free kick from 22 yards.

In the second half it was more of the same, the Bromleians rarely threatening Phil Hawkins goal. Dave Burren got his name on the score sheet half volleying in from an acute angle with his left foot . Not to be outdone substitute Karl Mitchell came on and with his first kick of the game buried a piledriver from fully 30 yards to score the goal of the game. The Bromleians showed good spirit and kept trying but m.o.m Owen Myles and the rest of the Rustics defence carried on defying their best attempts.

Rusthall 3 Sheppey 2

In their final warm up game before the start of the regular season, the Rustic played a strong Sheppey United side. Still missing 6 squad members, the Rustics were forced to make changes from the side that had performed so well the previous week at Hollands & Blair.

Kicking up the hill in the first half it was Sheppey that started the better, with Rusthall struggling to cope with their five-man midfield. On two occasions they managed to get behind the Rusthall defence, only to be let down by their final ball into the box.

Going forward Rusthall were dominating the Sheppey defence with Austin and Perkins looking particularly dangerous. On 25 Minutes Burren played in Perkins, who from a tight angle drilled the ball just past the post. Sheppey took the lead on 30 minutes, when hesitation in the Rusthall defence allowed the Sheppey left winger to bundle the ball past Hawkins at the far post. Rusthall continue to press forward, their one touch football was causing the Sheppey defence all sorts of problems, however the lack of bodies in the box prevented the Rustics drawing level. Sheppey were unable to cope with Perkins movement, just as Rusthall were unable to cope with the Sheppey’s number 8 movement, this was to lead to an open game. On 40 minutes following good work by Austin and Myles, Burren had a glorious opportunity to level the scoring, but was unable to keep the ball down from 5 yards.

At half time, Duffield replaced Owen Myles and Mitchell replaced Coxon. Rusthall were still not playing their normal flowing football, and were becoming increasingly frustrated. On 55 minutes, the Sheppey defender was allowed to make progress unchallenged through the Rusthall midfield and into the box. His low cross was side footed in from 5 yards. At this point Rusthall looked dead and buried.

Gilden replaced Andy Myles and made an immediate impact. On 70 minutes Perkins robbed the Sheppey defender and played in Burren, who slammed the ball passed the goalkeeper. This gave Rusthall a new lease of life. On 75 minutes, Burren ran onto a through ball from Austin, and was fouled by the Sheppey defender, the referee played a good advantage and Burren travelled into the box where he was again fouled. Mitchell thumped home the resulting penalty.

Rusthall continue to press and on 80 minutes Lester played a long ball behind the Sheppey defence, Austin beat the offside trap and drilled the ball across the area to Perkins, who controlled it and poked the ball home to give Rusthall the victory.

Hollands & Blair 0 Rusthall 4

Following a disappointing result the previous week against Bridon Ropes (3-3), Rusthall put in a much improved performance against Hollands & Blair on Saturday. Blair where last years Kent Junior Cup winners and had been undefeated for two years, so they were not taken lightly. Missing six regulars due to holiday/ injury the Rustics started with a weakened side and with some players making their first appearance of the season.

Blair started the brighter, and the Rustic goalkeeper Hawkins was called into action to make some smart saves early on. After ten minutes the Rustics started to settle down, with Lester, Smithers, Coxon and Myles began to get the measure of the Blair attack and Perkins and McKenna began to control the midfield. On 15 minutes the Rustics took the lead when Lee Thompson finished off a flowing move involving Perkins, Andy Myles and Austin to bury the ball in the corner of the net. On 25 minutes the Rustics were to increase their lead with an absolutely superb goal. Lester knocked the ball up the line to Andy Myles playing as a makeshift centre forward. Myles set the ball for Hunter who whipped in a front post cross, which was met by Thompson, who despite the close attention of a Blair defender managed to twist and flick the ball into the top corner. Blair continued to attack with their left winger looking dangerous, but they where unable to finish, when the opportunities presented themselves. The game was effectively over on 35 minutes when Perkins robbed a Blair defender and played the ball to Thompson, who fed in Austin to drill the ball home to make it 3-0.

From the restart Blair continued to come at the Rustics, but Coxon and Smithers held firm and continued to use the ball well when in possession. Hawkins looked calm and composed in the Rustic goal, and dealt well with anything that did breach the Rustic defence. On 50 minutes Rusthall increased their lead when Owen Myles delivered a deep cross to the back post and Hunter slotted the ball home. The Rustics played the last 40 minutes with the aim of trying to keep a clean sheet, which they did despite a few close encounters. The team can take confidence from this performance and with the return of Burren, Hassell, Yeates and Brown for next weeks encounter with Sheppey, can look to push on again.

A new season with Rusthall's first team hopeful of maintaining last seasons form. Managers Forbes and Brown have made some good pre season signings with Shane Hickmott joining from Tunbridge Wells, Lee Thompson joining from Ashford, Phil Hawkins joining from Tonbridge and Steve Ashmore, Andrew Myles and Ian Yeates returning from University. Carl Roberts has left the club and Martin Millins has joined East Farleigh.

Competition for places will be hot with good cover in all positions. The league season opens with a home game against Bromleians Sports on 4th Sept. Before that however, there are testing friendlies against Hollands and Blair who won last years Kent Junior Cup and Sheppey United who won Division 2 East last term. Forbes hopes to have Austin, Myles A, Lester and Hunter available to add to the squad who drew last weeks game with Bridon Ropes, with Brown, Burren, Ashmore, Yeates and probably Hickmott unavailable due to either Holiday or injury.