Match Preview: Phoenix vs Whitstable Town

Phoenix Sports Media
Jan 23
2 min read

Phoenix travel to the league leaders on Saturday.

Phoenix Sports face a tough test on Saturday as they travel to league leaders Whitstable Town, looking to extend their strong start to 2026.

Jake Goodman’s side will be aiming to make it seven games unbeaten after beginning the new year in impressive fashion with a 4–1 victory over Stansfeld FC last time out.

The hosts were responsible for Phoenix’s last defeat, with a late Nathan Jelche goal deciding the reverse fixture. That match proved a controversial one, with Phoenix reduced to ten men four minutes from time following the dismissal of Lyle Della Verde - a decision that was later overturned on appeal, adding to the sense of frustration on the day.

Phoenix have strengthened their squad ahead of the trip, with attacking midfielder Khayrie Harris joining the club this week from Faversham Strikeforce. There are no new injury concerns for Goodman to manage, although midfielder Harry Smart remains sidelined with a long-term knee injury.

Whitstable have seen some movement in their squad this week, announcing the departures of Nathan Jelche and Bradley Walledge, while Jack Nelson has joined VCD Athletic on a month-long loan.

The Oystermen go into Saturday’s fixture in formidable form, having won their last ten matches in all competitions and remaining unbeaten in 14. Prolific forward Javaun Splatt has already found the net 22 times this season.

With Phoenix in good form and Whitstable setting the pace at the top, Saturday’s encounter promises to be a fascinating test for Jake Goodman’s men.

Supporters travelling by car should approach East Kent via the M2, continuing to the end of the motorway at Faversham. From there, join the A299 Thanet Way, following signs for Margate and Ramsgate, and remain on the road for approximately six miles, passing Seasalter Marshes on the left.

Take the exit for Whitstable (A2990 – Old Thanet Way) and continue to the third roundabout, with Tesco on the right. Take the first exit onto Millstrood Hill, and after passing the cemetery on the right, turn left into Grimshill Road. The entrance to the stadium car park is located approximately 200 yards on the right.