Wilmington were dealt a double blow at the weekend as their Kent Cup tie with Eltham Palace postponed due to the overnight rain and the club lost the services of its influential playmaker Trevor Hand to non-league Redhill.

Hand, previously with Dartford and Boreham Wood, was a key figure in last season's championship-winning side and his move to Redhill is a major blow for Wilmington.

Manager manager Chris Boucher said: "I knew of Redhill's interest and although I'm disappointed Trevor decided to leave. I know everyone at the club will want to wish him every success."

On the field, Wilmington Reserves continued their dramatic slide down the South London Alliance Division two table with a disastrous defeat away at leaders Brockley.

The home side took an early lead but fine goals either side of the break from Mark Jackson appeared to save put Wilmington firmly in the driving seat.

Gavin Emmett had an opportunity to put Wilmington further ahead shortly afterward his seide's second goal.

It proved to be a costly miss as he saw his effort blocked at close range by the Brockley goalkeeper.

Then, with 25 minutes left, Wilmington's defensive frailties were exposed by a rampant Brockley side who must have thought Christmas had come early when they slammed in six goals to run out 7-2 winners.

This Saturday, Wilmington's first team will be hoping to stage its Kent Junior Cup third round tie against Eltham Invicta. Kick-off at Oakfield Park is scheduled for 1.30pm.

December 4, 2001 13:18