Lydd Town appoint Scott Porter as their new manager as James Rogers has mutually agreed to step down due to his significantly increased playing commitments with the club

LYDD TOWN have appointed former Hollands & Blair manager Scott Porter as their new manager last night.

The Dengemarsh Road outfit announced that James Rogers has mutually agreed to step down from his role as manager due to his significantly increased playing commitments with the club.

The Lydders celebrated winning the Southern Counties East Football League First Division play-offs in Mikey Doyle’s first game in charge of the club after finishing in third-place and joined champions Snodland Town in the ninth-tier for the first time.

However, Doyle stepped down from the role and Rogers and Tom Wynter took joint-charge of the club on 27 July.

Lydd Town are in ninth-place in the Southern Counties East Football League Premier Division table with 36 points (11 wins, three draws, seven defeats) from their 21 league games, seven points adrift of the play-off zone.

Porter stepped down from his manager’s role with Hollands & Blair on Sunday, citing that he had taken the club as far as he could and was ready for a new challenge.

“Rogo’s dedication both on and off the field has been an integral part of Lydd Town’s successful journey and will no doubt continue to be throughout the remainder of the season as he focuses on his role as a leader on the pitch,” said a club statement.

“Moving forward, the club is pleased to announce the appointment in the role of first-team manager of former club captain Scott Porter.

“Effective immediately, Scott will take the reins, bringing experience and pedigree both at this level and higher.

“The club is also pleased to announce that the existing coaching team in Owen Kessack and Dexter Gondongwe will be joined by Mark Lane and Shaun Welford, both of which follow Scott from his previous managerial appointment.

“Mark is well known for his expertise and commitment to player development and Shaun Welford is a house-hold name and prolific goalscorer in non-league football.

“Simultaneously, Tom Wynter will also step into a supporting role to Scott, which will allow Tom to focus on his comeback from an ACL injury as he nears his return to playing.

“The club would like to express its gratitude to Rogo for his dedication and commitment in his role as first-team manager and hope everyone gives a warm welcome to Scott, Mark and Shaun on their next trip down to the Lyndsey Field as the club looks to push on its attempts to achieve a play-off place.”

Lydd Town welcome fifteenth-placed VCD Athletic on Saturday (15:00).

Rogers and Wynter were in joint-charge for 29 completed games in all competitions and the team sealed 15 wins, three draws and 11 defeats.

The pair were in charge of last Saturday’s 2-1 win at Holmesdale, the winning goal being scored by former Dover Athletic manager Mitch Brundle.

Visit Lydd Town’s website: www.lyddtownfc.co.uk