Bearsted are aiming to take the next step and finish in the Southern Counties East play-offs. The Bears were in contention for a top-five spot for much of last season before tailing off and ending seventh. After punching above their weight, manager Kevin Stevens hopes a number of key signings will help them last the pace. Bearsted boasted the meanest defence in the Premier Division, with only 43 goals conceded in 40 matches. And they’ve added the likes of ex-Football League man Jason Banton, Connor French, Billy Lewins and Jesse Darko in attacking areas. Banton is a particularly exciting arriv…
