TWO defeats over the Bank Holiday weekend have left Deal Town among the early-season strugglers in the Kent League Premier Division.

After losing 4-2 at home to Croydon on Saturday, Derek Hares’ side went down again at Hythe Town on Monday, but Hares insisted: “Although we weren’t too clever against Croydon, we were really unlucky not to get anything at Hythe.

“Their winning goal from Buster Smissen was a total fluke, and Buster admitted as much to me after the game, while (Hythe keeper) Paul Hyde made three or four great saves.

“But I told the players afterwards how pleased I was with their performance against a side who are always tough opponents, especially at home.”

Deal are without a game this Saturday but next Wednesday (September 3) they face a tough trip to Herne Bay who are in second place behind surprise leaders Holmesdale following Monday’s 4-0 home win over Norton Sports.