Trophy comes first for King

Canvey Island manager Jeff King would not swap the FA Trophy for life in next season's Conference.  

The Essex club finished second in the Ryman Premier Division to Farnborough, just missing out on the promotion spot.

But King believes his side's 1-0 victory over Forest Green Rovers at Villa Park, eclipses the success enjoyed at promotion rivals Boro.

He said: "We haven't been promoted this year but I wouldn't swap this season for anything.

"I believe before long we'll be a Conference club. but I wouldn't swap my season for the year Farnborough have had."

Canvey Island midfielder Mark Stimson, who played an influential role in his side's victory, backed up the thoughts of his manager.

He added: "Jeff has built a squad that should be in the Conference.

"If we'd been allowed to concentrate on the league I believe we could have won promotion. We've got a tremendous record this season against Conference and League sides. We've proved that we can compete with the best and win."

The Trophy defeat heralded the end of an era for Forest Green Rovers managerial double act of Nigel Spink and David Norton.

The Villa stars believe it is impossible to continue as joint managers and on Monday the club will announce the departure of Spink or his former Villa boot-boy Norton.

Norton said: "Nigel and I have spoken about the situation and we both agree the club can only continue to prosper with one man in charge.

"We're both big boys and we can handle whatever decision is made."