Stuart Benfield replaces outgoing Gary Axford as manager of Southern Counties East Division 1 Faversham Strike Force

Faversham Strike Force have started a new era with their long-serving manager stepping aside from match-day duties after seven years at the reins.

Former assistant Stuart Benfield began life as Gary Axford’s replacement with a tough double-header which yielded two defeats, including an agonising 1-0 loss at high-flying Rochester United in Saturday’s Southern Counties East Division 1 clash.

The Force carved out the best chances, with Tom Carter hitting the post and Tom Barton narrowly failing to fire home the rebound.

Insult was added to injury when the hosts found a last-ditch winner to round off a difficult week for Strike Force after an 8-2 Challenge Cup hammering at Premier Division Deal Town last Tuesday, as Barton scored both their goals.

Despite a tricky first week, Axford thinks his successor should look to the future with confidence.

He said: “The side is established in Division 1 now and the plan was always to strengthen the management team and pass over responsibilities to Stuart.

“He’s had a baptism of fire - but the side is in a good place.

“The time is right and we can quickly climb the table with a few wins.”

Faversham Strike Force are next in action at FC Elmstead in the Kent Senior Trophy on Wednesday.