by Alex Hoad

Whitstable Town manager Justin Luchford heaped praise on new signing James Pinnock after an inspirational performance which helped his side overcome Sittingbourne.

Pinnock arrived the previous week from Maidstone, opting to join the Oystermen ahead of the Brickies at the 11th hour.

The forward was instrumental in Town’s 1-0 Ryman League, Division 1 South win at Sittingbourne on Saturday, winning the penalty three minutes before half-time which Scott Heard converted to secure the three points.

Luchford (pictured) said: "Pinnock was absolutely fantastic. His work rate was unbelievable. He’s 33 but he worked harder than anyone. He’s a great signing for us."

Town host Crawley Down on Saturday and should have Dane Luchford and Dan Wisker both available after both missed the Sittingbourne game. Stephen Lloyd and Alfie Munday are rated 50/50 but Stuart Vahid and Laurence Harvey are another week away from fitness.

Luchford said: "They might be near us in the table but they are certainly not in the form-table.

"Since they changed manager they have got a lot of new players, and many of them I used to manage at Horsham.

"They are a strong side now and it’s going to be tough, but we know a bit about them and we have some more players back."