Faversham Town boss Steve Watt eager to prove to club’s youngsters there is genuine path to first team as prospect Lennon Diamond makes substitute appearance in 4-2 FA Cup win - in front of the famous cup itself!

Steve Watt is eager to prove to Faversham Town’s youngsters there is a genuine path to the club's first team - and has wasted little time putting those words into action.

The Lilywhites started the new season with a 4-2 FA Cup extra preliminary round victory over Corinthian-Casuals as midfielders Ethan Smith and Nathan Wood, striker Ibrahim Olutade and the returning defender Jack Steventon scored last weekend.

With Faversham’s progress to the next round virtually secured, Lennon Diamond was introduced for Olutade late on while fellow under-23s player Ralph Fox was, ultimately, an unused substitute.

“We were pleased with all of them, particularly Lennon and Ralph, in pre-season,” said Faversham boss Watt.

“We looked to get them both on but we had to make a different change due to someone getting cramp.

“With the games he has been involved in, Lennon hasn’t looked out of place at all. The next step is to get him regular game-time with another club.

“But he’s certainly someone we will look to get involved in some of our cup matches. We want to show the youngsters there is a real pathway to the first team.

“There is no better way of doing that than by giving them a chance when we can.”

It was a memorable day at Salters Lane on and off the pitch, as the players performed after some of those in the 317-strong crowd had been presented with the chance to pose with the FA Cup prior to kick-off.

Watt said: “The atmosphere was brilliant.

“The FA Cup always brings a special atmosphere, particularly in the early rounds. The club had a fantastic run in it last year [reaching the third qualifying round] so we have got to try and replicate that this year.

“As I said to the players before the game, there is always a non-league team that