More on KentOnline
Home Sittingbourne Sport Article
Sittingbourne players hit the boxing gym to get ready for their return to league action.
The Brickies play their first Isthmian South East game since New Year’s Day when they visit Margate tonight (7.45pm).
It’s a top-of-the-table clash at Hartsdown Park with the visitors second and their hosts in third place.
Sittingbourne’s game at Erith Town on Saturday was postponed due to a frozen pitch.
So manager Ryan Maxwell took his players to Cantwell’s Gym, next to Cray Valley’s ground in Eltham, to keep them ticking over.
“My option was to run them or take them to a boxing gym and refine that bit of determination that you need to come through big games that are coming thick and fast,” said Maxwell.
“This is what it’s all about if you’re trying to be a team that are up at the top.
“You’ll find lots of games are big games, nearly every game is a massive game because you’re fighting for a title or to go further in the FA Trophy. This is where you want to be.
“We decided to go into a boxing club and get our teeth gritted, ready for the upcoming challenges.
“We did a bit of pad work, bag work, some fitness work on the bikes.
“Sammy Cantwell put on a great session and a big thank-you to him.”
Sittingbourne are seven points clear of Margate, who lost their unbeaten home record at the weekend.
Ben Greenhalgh’s side were edged 2-1 by Sevenoaks and are looking to bounce back tonight.
“In fairness, you have to give Sevenoaks credit for what they’re good at,” said Maxwell.
“They held us to a draw at their place, they’ve got attacking threats and they are quite dangerous in their style.
“I wasn’t shocked by the result because I have respect for Sevenoaks and the players they have and what they do, albeit it was a slight shock to most people.
“I can only say it was on 3G, which obviously would have suited Sevenoaks as well, and they’re good going forward.
“I was maybe a little surprised Margate didn’t score more but Margate are doing extremely well, they’re right up there and away from home it’s going to be a difficult game.
“But this is why we’re in it, for these big games, and we’ll be fully prepared.”