James Bessey-Saldanha describes Sheppey United’s squad as one of the most naturally cohesive he has been involved as he scores for the second straight match

James Bessey-Saldanha has described Sheppey’s squad as one of the most naturally cohesive he has been involved in during his career.

The 27-year-old winger enjoyed The Ites’ best moment in the national spotlight on Friday night, scoring a fantastic first-half goal in their televised First-Round tie against Walsall - before the League 2 outfit hit back to run out 4-1 winners.

Now, Sheppey’s focus switches to Isthmian South East matters after their memorable cup run. Bessey-Saldanha thinks it will be a disappointing league campaign if they aren’t promoted at the end of it after they narrowly missed out on a play-off berth last term.

“The squad we have got is phenomenal,” he said. “The players we have are brilliant.

“I don’t think I have ever played with a team that gels so well naturally.

“So, I really do think we have got a good chance of getting promoted this season.

“If we don’t get promoted, it will be a big disappointment.”

Bessey-Saldanha already has Isthmian Premier experience. He moved to Holm Park in the summer after a few seasons with Margate.

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