Hythe Town boss Scott Porter unveils Ryan Rook signing

HYTHE TOWN boss Scott Porter has signed winger Ryan Rook from Kent League club Norton Sports – and has also announced the addition of Mark Lane to his coaching staff, writes Stephen McCartney.



Rook, 22, caught the eye with his appearances against Hythe in the past, as his former club Norton Sports having always provided tough opposition during Porter’s reign at Reachfields Stadium.

Rook was handed a trial by Tonbridge Angels boss Tommy Warrilow last summer, but opted to return to Woodstock Park after failing to make the grade at Ryman Premier League level.

“Without a doubt, he shone every week for Norton last season and it’s about time he stepped up,” Porter told www.hythetownfc.co.uk.  

“I think Tommy Warrilow was interested in taking him last summer, but he went back to Norton because he wanted regular football.

“We tried to get him last season but he was loyal to Norton so we’re delighted to get him this time.  Ryan’s got a great delivery from out wide and has plenty of pace, so it’s a great addition for us.”

Lane, meanwhile, joins the club primarily as goalkeeping coach, a role he previously held at Ryman League Division One North side Thamesmead Town.

Gravesend based Lane also has valuable experience from his time managing Whitstable Town in Ryman League Division One South.

Porter added: “Mark’s an old head and brings a lot of experience with him.  As someone who has managed at that level as well I’ll listen and try to learn from him.”

Porter has already snapped up striker Lloyd Blackman (Whitstable Town), full-back Aaron Lacy (Margate) and defender Tom Parkinson (Maidstone United) this summer as he prepares the club for its inaugural Ryman League Division One South campaign.

Visit Hythe Town’s website: www.hythetownfc.co.uk