Keith McMahon has hailed Whitstable’s second-half performance in their Isthmian South East loss at promotion-chasing rivals Ashford as their best since he arrived at the club.

A Tommie Fagg effort put the Nuts and Bolts in command before half-time, striker Johan Ter Horst rounding off the 2-0 win for Ashford at Homelands in stoppage-time last Saturday.

But Ashford goalkeeper Tyler McCarthy was named their man-of-the-match with talented teenagers Gus Barnes and Muhammed Cham once again impressing for McMahon’s men up front.

McCarthy made crucial saves and Whitstable twice hit the post.

McMahon, who described it as a game of two halves, said: “Second half, we got it down.

“I think it’s the best we have played since I have been here.

“Gus Barnes was outstanding. He caused Liam Friend all sorts of problems, and so did Muhammed Cham.

“They are a breath of fresh air.

“But we cannot rely on 17 year olds consistently.

“If we had an out-and-out goalscorer, I’m sure we would have got one or two.”

The Oystermen are at home to Three Bridges this Saturday before back-to-back away games at Hastings United on Tuesday and Chichester next Saturday.

Second-bottom Whitstable are due to add an attacking player to their ranks today while frontman Harry Goodger is back after a three-match suspension.

“We have got a new signing coming in this week,” said McMahon, although his new addition will not feature at The Belmont this weekend.

“He will add a lot to the club. I’m pleased to have got one over the line.”

Since joining Whitstable, McMahon has a 100 per cent home record, having beaten a Gillingham XI in the Kent Senior Cup semi-final and fellow strugglers Phoenix Sports in the league.

McMahon said: “I think the supporters can see we’re trying to make a difference.

“They can see the players are working for the club. They love seeing that.

“We need as many as we can get to head down on Saturday.

“At home, we need to make it a bit of a fortress.

“We need them to get behind us. I’m positive we can get a result.”

Defender Jack Miles (hamstring) and Montrell Deslandes (hamstring) are injury doubts for their clash against Three Bridges.

Whitstable have been drawn away to Ashford in the Kent Senior Cup first round.

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