Whitstable 0 v 1 VCD Athletic

Kent Senior Trophy Semi-Final

VCD Athletic are through to the final of the Kent Senior Trophy after a deserved, if ultimately tense, victory over Whitstable Town.

A powerful header from skipper Paul Foley on 70 minutes was the difference between the two sides in a match VCD dominated from start to finish.

They now face Tunbridge Wells in the final on April 15 at a venue yet to be decided.

VCD boss Martin Ford said: "If we were to go through we had to be at our best and we were with every player playing his part.

"We were in control from the first to the last minute against a very good Whitstable side."

He added: "I must admit I was a little worried we were unable to score one of the numerous chances we created, I wondered if it would be our day.

"Thankfully the lads kept going, showed a great desire to get through to the final and thoroughly deserved the victory."

Ford praised the VCD fans who made up almost half the 268-strong crowd.

He said: "Our supporters were truly magnificent singing their hearts out and making a difference on the day."

VCD started the match brightly with Mark Greatorex forcing Sam Mott into a wonderful save and then having a penalty appeal turned down.

The visitors were playing attractive football with James Brown and Ashley Probets in inspired form.

Danny Penny's shot flew inches wide and Mott was again in action to deny Kevin Winchcombe and Stuart Abbott.

Despite all their possession, VCD stopper Grant Wallis had to be alert to save from Steve Marshall and keep the scores level at half-time.

The second half was much like the first with Mott again saving from Greatorex and then Penny.

Whitstable had their best chance of the half when Foley slipped allowing Andy Constable a clean run on goal.

Fortunately for the skipper, the tall striker pulled his shot wide of the goal.

It was the spur VCD needed and when Probets delivered a perfect cross from a free-kick near the corner flag, Foley rose highest to power the ball home.

Whitstable tried to rally but the defensive duo of Foley and Lee Coburn were impregnable and VCD held on.

MATCH FACTS: VCD: Wallis; Whitehouse; Hunt; Foley; Coburn; A Probets; Brown; Winchcombe (Hogg); Abbott; Greatorex; Penny.

SUBS NOT USED: Dimmock; C Probets; Murphy; Owen.

ATT: 268.