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Gulls one win away from Ryman Premier
CANVEY Island soccer boss John Batch insists he has no fears whatever line-up he puts into action for tomorrow's winner-takes-all Ryman One North play-off final.
Gulls have struggled against horrendous injury problems throughout the campaign and were without key central defender Kevin Dobinson for Tuesday's thrilling extra-time semi-final at AFC Sudbury.
And there was a further blow when star front runner Nicky Rugg was forced out injured during the first-half.
But the Islanders ran out 3-2 extra-time winners with Leon Gordon, who stepped up from midfield to replace Rugg, heading two great goals.
There are hopes that vastly-experienced Dobinson, like Rugg suffering from an ankle injury, might be fit tomorrow. But Rugg looks likely to miss out.
"I look at our players in the dressing room and every one of the 20 have played their part in what has been a magnificent season for us," said Batch.
"If someone is missing, another player has come in to do a job well.
"The players did this club proud on Tuesday and I have no doubt they will repeat that tomorrow.
"Sudbury finished second against our fifth, but I was so confident before the game.
"I said that they would have to produce one hell of a performance to beat us.
"Now I'm quite happy to repeat that about Redbridge tomorrow. They finished third and them and us are the in-form sides.
"We respect them, but my players have got a tremendous belief in themselves now and all firmly believe that they're going all the way."
Gulls' followers made up more than half of the 400-plus crowd at Sudbury on Tuesday and expect even more supporters to make the journey to Barkingside tomorrow (3pm).
"Our fans have been superb all season," Batch added.
"They've got behind us fantastically and I'd love to win tomorrow and be able to give them and everyone who works so hard for this great club Premier soccer next season."
I'll back the islanders, who've lost just three times in 23 games, for final glory, but Redbridge, managed by ex-Football League star Dean Holdsworth, will prove a tough nut to crack.
And, in former Billericay Town and Great Wakering man Dave Collins and another ex-Burroughs Park favourite Steve "Scouse" Butterworth, they have players capable of troubling the best.
Former Canvey midfielder and current Southend United manager Steve Tilson is hoping his old club win tomorrow.
"John has done a fantastic job there this season and I'm so pleased for them," Tilson said. "I know him well and he's worked wonders to get them into the play-offs.
"They certainly don't have the biggest budget down there but he has put together a good team.
"He has experienced players in Craig Davidson, Mel Capleton and Colin Wall and also has some really good youngsters.
"I'm glad they are doing well and I wish them all the best for tomorrow. I really hope they go they and win so they can get back into the Ryman Premier League."
8:11am Friday 2nd May 2008
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