The club remembers midfielder Matt Stock (circled in above photo) today after learning that he has sadly passed away this week aged 64.
Matt played for the Fleet in season 1984/85, making 15 Southern League Premier and cup appearances under managers Tony Burns and Eddie Presland. He scored his only goal in a League Cup victory over Tonbridge.
He usually partnered Ernie Batten – now manager of Sheppey United – in midfield. He was born on the Isle of Sheppey and after a spell with Charlton Athletic as a schoolboy, came through Maidstone’s ranks to their first-team squad. He played for Sheppey, Sittingbourne, Hastings United, Chelmsford City and Folkestone before joining the Fleet in 1985.
He was a well-travelled player who turned out in Australia, Finland and South Africa while also continuing his career in England with Dover, Ashford, Crawley Town, Faversham Town, Margate and Chatham Town. A skilful, strong, attacking player with excellent ball control, he had numerous suitors from the Football League as a youngster.
Matt retired from senior football in 1997 and also worked as a tennis coach. Everyone at the Fleet sends our sympathies to his family and friends.
