Whitstable Town manager Nicky Southall praised several of his squad’s youngsters after their opening pre-season action against League 2 side Dagenham & Redbridge.

The Daggers won 4-0 at The Belmont on Saturday but Southall picked out new arrivals from Maidstone, Charlie and Josh Smith, and Dan Keyte for praise.

He said: “It was a good day for the club and a decent performance. They brought their first-team and were polished and professional.

“We did our share of chasing around but they were chasing us too at times and we could have been a couple of goals up by the time they took the lead.

“I learned a few things about some of the players but the only thing that matters is the first league game on August 10.”

Town's side also included experienced summer acquisition Mo Takaloo who hit the crossbar inside the first 10 minutes.

Town were wearing shirts sponsored by Budgens of Whitstable, who have agreed a one-year sponsorship deal.