Out with the new, in with the old at Matlock Town
A familiar face is back in charge at Matlock Town after a dramatic change in heart from recently-announced manager Graham Drury.
Drury had been confirmed as the Gladiators’ boss a fortnight ago, but then revealed to the Gladiators’ owner David Hilton last week that he was struggling to attract players following confirmation the club would again play in the NPL Division One East, with Drury himself and the bulk of his targets being based in the Lincolnshire/Nottinghamshire area.
He then resigned from his post after barely a week in charge, and was then named as the new boss of Peterborough Sports on Friday.
That led Matlock to reappoint Ryan Cresswell as manager alongside assistant Ricky Ravenhill, the pair having won six straight games whilst in interim charge at the end of the season before losing out in the play-offs.
Hilton said in a statement: “Firstly, I must apologise. The decision to appoint Graham was mine and mine alone. When Graham’s contract was signed, every detail was thoroughly discussed. He was fully aware we were planning for the East division — something the projections had always indicated.
"His proposed solution to the increased travelling for a proportion of fixtures was to move training to Loughborough and reduce it to once a week on a Thursday, with coach travel provided for away games. This was agreed and fully supported by the club.
“Earlier this week, I was informed by several players that Graham was struggling to secure commitments. Many players had been released on his instructions from last season, while others had moved to higher-level clubs. A significant number were unable to accommodate the relocation of training further south. Nevertheless, we trusted Graham and believed he would deliver.
“I am extremely disappointed by how this situation has unfolded, having placed full faith in a man who had previously shown nothing but honesty and integrity.”
Striker Jonathon Margetts, meanwhile, has confirmed he wishes to stay at the club despite having been recruited by Drury, while last season’s players Conor Washington, Foaud Bachirou, Ben Sault and Dec Eratt-Thompson have also re-committed having initially left at the end of the season.
Goalkeeper Alfie Roberts and defender Jo Cummings have been recruited after leaving Ilkeston Town and FC Halifax Town respectively.