Morgan back at Vale - Avery steps in

JOEL AVERY is the new coach of Sylvans and Tristram Morgan is on the way back to Vale Rec. Avery, who was club captain for much of their nine-year domination of the Priaulx League, follows in the footsteps of his father, Bob, who was in charge of the westerners for a period during their decade at the top.

Sylvans announced the move on Friday, within 24 hours of Morgan's scathing comments as to the first-team squad's lack of commitment.

But club president Peter Roberts said that he knew of Morgan's decision to quit as long ago as a week yesterday.

'Tristram Morgan telephoned me last Sunday evening to advise me of his decision to quit as Sylvans' Priaulx coach, citing the poor attendance at that evening's training session and a general lack of commitment from the players, although he did not rule out the possibility of staying at the club as a player,' said Roberts.

'Given the timing of the decision, it was essential that the club acted quickly to appoint a successor.

'We are pleased to announce that Joel Avery will take charge of the team, assisted by Andy McCarthy, supplemented by Martyn de Garis.'

Roberts said he was 'sure that the players would respond to their management style'.

'Joel has learned from having played under some of the most successful local coaches at both club and island level and has quite definite ideas about how he wants the team to play.

'Andy has coached Sylvans Ladies and Railway sides, accumulating a number of trophies along the way.

'Martyn left the club several weeks ago, but in the light of recent developments has decided to return and will once more take charge of the club's Youth Twos.'

The Sylvans president admitted to being aghast that Morgan went public with his grievances.

'I would like to thank him for his efforts over what was a very difficult season for the club and wish him well in the future.'

Morgan had joined the red-and-whites as player-coach in the wake of the sacking of his predecessor at St Peter's, Richard Packman.

Two seasons ago Morgan was the island's outstanding senior footballer and won the GFA player-of-the-year trophy having helped Vale Rec to an unexpected championship.

Chris Hamon, the new Vale manager, is pleased to have him back at the Corbet Field.

'It was a bit of a shock phonecall I had from him.

Morgan, 36 next week, said: 'I just want to play and enjoy my football. I enjoyed my challenge at Sylvans - enjoyed the coaching.'