‘Still hurts me’ – Bromley midfielder Arthurs looking to make up for Wembley FA Trophy disappointment with National League promotion

Jude Arthurs is hoping that he can make up for previous Wembley disappointment by helping clinch Bromley’s place in League Two next season.

The 22-year-old netted and grabbed an assist in the Ravens’ 3-1 National League semi-final play-off win over Altrincham at Hayes Lane on Sunday.

Arthurs felt a lingering disappointment at being left out of the 18-man matchday squad when Andy Woodman’s side lifted the FA Trophy in May 2022 with a 1-0 victory over Wrexham.

But now he look set to start in Sunday’s play-off final against Solihull Moors – with the victorious club landing EFL football for the first time in their history.

“I’m extra buzzing,” Arthurs told the South London Press. “Hopefully I can get selected and play. The disappointment of last time still hurts me a little bit.

“Myself and the manager do have a little bit of banter about it here and there, because I do like to remind him. Hopefully we can put it right next time.

“It’s a cup game – so it’s all about who turns up on the day.”

Arthurs was picked up by the club’s academy and has made 123 National League appearances under Woodman since the ex-Crystal Palace goalkeeping coach became boss.

“It’s been a mad journey,” said Arthur. “I have played more than 100 games for the football club – it’s a lot.

“I’m only 22 but I’m very experienced with the number of games I have played for my age.

“I have to give all the credit to the manager. I was only 18 when I first came into it – I was still a young boy.

“A lot of managers wouldn’t have taken the risk of putting a young boy in. But he has shown – whether it’s Ben (Krauhaus) or Kellen (Fisher) – he puts his trust in the youth.

“We also have experience in the changing room. We have Byron (Webster), who I look up to. Every day in training he helps us young boys.

“We have loads of players like that who we look to for that bit of guidance to help us push on.”

Fellow youngster Krauhaus is set to move to Premier League side Brentford when the final ball is kicked of Bromley’s season.

The 19-year-old was forced off early in the win over Altrincham with a metatarsal injury and left Hayes Lane in a protective boot and crutches, making him a serious doubt for the final.

“Ben has been unbelievable,” said Arthurs. “He’s a great player and I love playing with him. I always say to him: ‘You’re our match-winner’.

“He’s the type of player you can give the ball to and he makes something happen.

“He’s a great lad and a great player.”