9thsept03

Tuesday 09th September 2003

Change of manager at Tunbridge Wells

Go Travel Kent League side Tunbridge Wells have announced the appointment of a new first team management team, writes Stephen McCartney - www.kentishfootball.co.uk

New manager Kevin Metcalf will be assisted by Phil Harris and Gary Valli.

Tunbridge Wells are currently lying in fourteenth place in the Kent League table and have been knocked out of both FA competitions at the very first hurdle.

Wells were knocked out of the FA Cup, losing 4-1 at Chichester City United in the Extra Preliminary Round before Chessington United won 4-2 at Culverden Stadium last Saturday, to end the club's interest in the FA Vase, going out in the First Qualifying Round.

In a club statement, the Culverden Stadium outfit said: "The club committee would like to thank Steve Clark for his services to the club both as a player and manager - the highlight of which was a sixth place finish in the Kent League. They wish him every success in the future wherever that may lie."

Metcalf and Harris join Tunbridge Wells from Tenterden Town, who were promoted to the British Energy Kent County League top flight at the end of last season. They had a made decent start to the new campaign, beating Stansfield O&B Club 4-2 at home and winning 1-0 at Milton Athletic.

Valli has been a member of the Tunbridge Wells playing staff for a number of seasons now, and recently made a comeback after a long injury lay-off.

Metcalf started his football career at Welling United playing mainly youth and reserve team football and then went on to play for Greenwich Borough in the Kent League for many seasons. He finished his playing career at Danson Furness in the same league.

He has worked for Arsenal and Charlton Athletic at their Academies, and managed Headcorn and Canterbury City. Kevin also has a Coaching Badge and UEFA B Qualification.

Tunbridge Wells vs Slade Green, @ Culverden Stadium, Culverden Down, Tunbridge Wells, Saturday 13 September (3pm), Go Travel Kent League Premier Division