Sheppey United and Sheppey Sports will meet in a friendly this Saturday with the winner claiming the Ernie Batten Cup

There’s a pre-season friendly match with added meaning at Sheppey United this Saturday.

The Ites will play their Holm Park tenants Sheppey Sports for the Ernie Batten Cup - a trophy which the two teams will contest on an annual basis in memory of the club’s legendary former boss.

Ernie Batten’s two sons Ian and George jointly manage Southern Counties East Division 1 side Sheppey Sports and it’s set to be an emotional afternoon.

Ian Batten said: “To play for the Ernie Batten Cup is a nice touch and gives the game more meaning.

“It’s going to be an emotional day, as well as a celebration.

“If a few hundred people are there watching, that would be amazing, hopefully it gets a good turnout - and hopefully we can turn Sheppey United over!”

Ernie Batten passed away earlier this year and his sons have continued to follow in their father’s footsteps as they continue on their own management careers.

Sports narrowly missed out on promotion last season after losing out in the play-offs.

Ian said: “I’ve heard a lot of stories about what people got up to with my dad, and that’s been really touching to hear. It’s been so positive to know that my dad had such an impact on so many people’s lives.

“He was my best friend and I was incredibly proud of him anyway, so proud of what he achieved in his life and to have built Sheppey United up from nothing to what we have now, which will hopefully last forever.

“He’s a great person to have learned from, with the success he had as a manger.

“When me and George said about managing he said ‘you must be absolutely mad!’

“It’s a difficult gig at times but when you’re winning games and doing well it’s really rewarding. Since stopping playing, it’s not quite as good, but it’s the next best thing.

“We’