Sittingbourne 0–3 Faversham Town
Isthmian League South East Division
Saturday 17 October 2026
Report by : Glen Parkes
Brickies Battle Hard but Faversham Take the Spoils in Local Derby
Sittingbourne suffered a 3–0 defeat against local rivals Faversham Town on Saturday afternoon, but the final scoreline did not tell the whole story of a determined performance from a Brickies side severely depleted by injuries in recent weeks.
With several players unavailable due to injury and Captain, Bagasan Graham through suspension, Sittingbourne knew they faced a difficult afternoon against a Faversham side with genuine ambitions of challenging near the top end of the Isthmian League South East Division. The visitors ultimately proved the stronger team on the day, but the home side worked tirelessly, showed plenty of character and continued to compete even when the odds were stacked against them.
The Brickies made a positive start in front of their home supporters, showing energy and commitment as they looked to establish themselves in this important local derby. Despite their shortage of available players, Sittingbourne were organised and willing to battle for every ball, refusing to allow their neighbours to settle too comfortably in the opening stages.
Faversham, however, gradually began to apply pressure. The visitors moved the ball well and looked for openings, attempting to break down a home defence that was working hard to maintain its shape. Sittingbourne had to remain alert as Faversham increased their attacking threat. Goalkeeper Carter Sullivan, who with the departure of Jamie Grossart to Aveley, committing himself to The Brickies, produced an excellent performance between the posts to keep his side in the contest.
The pressure eventually told on the half-hour mark. Faversham’s Josh Strouts got the breakthrough in the 30th minute, getting the decisive touch to send the visitors into the lead. It was a reward for their persistence, although Sittingbourne could take encouragement from the way they had competed during the opening half-hour.
Going into the interval trailing by a single goal, the Brickies knew they still had an opportunity to get back on level terms. The players had put in a tremendous amount of work, and with the score still finely balanced, there remained hope that a determined second-half effort could change the direction of the match.
Sittingbourne returned after the break with the task of finding an equaliser, but Faversham continued to demonstrate why they are regarded as a competitive side in the division. The visitors looked dangerous going forward and remained determined to extend their advantage.
Their second goal arrived in the 61st minute from a free kick from just outside The Brickies penalty area. Jack Evans found the net with an excellent strike that gave Sullivan no chance, giving Faversham a two-goal cushion and leaving the Brickies with a difficult challenge.
Nevertheless, Sittingbourne did not simply accept defeat. The second half developed into a more open, end-to-end contest, with both sides looking to make things happen. The Brickies continued to push forward when opportunities presented themselves, showing attacking intent and refusing to let the scoreline dictate their attitude.
With such a limited squad available because of the recent injury problems, maintaining that level of effort was particularly creditable. The players continued to cover ground, compete for possession and support one another, demonstrating a togetherness that will be important as the season progresses.
There was also an encouraging return for Mitchell May, who was back in the Sittingbourne side. May settled back into the team well, showing that he could slot into the group without disrupting its rhythm. His return was a positive for the Brickies, especially at a time when injuries have restricted the manager’s options. Having players returning and becoming available again will be valuable as Sittingbourne look to navigate a demanding run of fixtures.
Sullivan also deserves special recognition for his display. The Sittingbourne goalkeeper had a fantastic game, making important contributions as Faversham continued to threaten. Although he was ultimately beaten three times, his performance helped keep the home side competitive for long periods and reflected the effort being put in throughout the team.
As the match approached its conclusion, Sittingbourne continued to battle, but Faversham had the final word in stoppage time and from another free kick. Like the second goal, Sullvan had no chance with Josh Hare’s strike.
Sittingbourne: Carter Sullivan, Gavin Hoyte, Germaine Dua, D’sean Theobalds, Paul Appiah, Reiss Greenidge, Kharvarn Williams, Joe Boachie, Jordan Greenidge (Kieron Agbebi), Mitchell May, Jordy Mongoy (Darren Foxley).
Faversham Town: Tom Hadler, Josh Hare, Jack Parter, Tommie Fagg, Jack Steventon, Harry Hudson, Nathan Wood (Henry Sinai), Jack Evans (Kane Haysman), Eniye Amgbaduba (Ethan Smith), Josh Dtrouts, Troy Howard (Kai Garande)
Referee: Kane Dempster
Att: 452