Shoreham, Storrington and Worthing United hold no fears for Wick chief

Wick FC chairman David Phillips anticipates a strong run after the draw was revealed for the new Southern Combination League Division One Supplementary Shield.
Wick in action against Saltdean earlier in the season / Picture: Stephen GoodgerWick in action against Saltdean earlier in the season / Picture: Stephen Goodger
Wick in action against Saltdean earlier in the season / Picture: Stephen Goodger

The contest kicks off next week and replaces the remainder of the league programme which has been scrapped after being postponed because of the latest Covid lockdown.

The shield format is similar to the Champions League with group stages leading to a semi-final and a final, which will be played on Monday, May 17.

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“We have been drawn in Group B with Shoreham, Storrington and Worthing United and although they are fine opponents I expect us to win the group and reach the last four,” Phillips said.

“After that it’s knockout football and anything can happen. We have a strong squad under the management of Tom Simmonds and Lee Baldwin and if we hit the heights we reached before lockdown we will pose a significant threat.”

The Dragons will face the winners of Group C containing Arundel, Billingshurst, Midhurst, Oakwood and Roffey, if they win their section.

That means they would avoid Division One big guns Bexhill who have been drawn in Group A while Littlehampton are it entered in the Shield.

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Phillips added: “The only drawback is that spectators are not allowed because of Government and Football Association restrictions but this tournament is great news for the club and the players as we emerge from lockdown and prepare for next season.’