Erith & Belvedere boss Matt Longhurst searches for under 21 management team

ERITH & BELVEDERE newly-appointed manager Matt Longhurst says he’s searching for a management team for the club’s under 21 side.



The club have entered a side in the NRG Gyms Under 21 Development League next season, which was won by University of Kent in its inaugural season.

Longhurst was appointed as the Deres new manager after an ill-fated inaugural campaign in the Ryman League Division One North, finishing at the foot of the table with 22 points from 46 games.

Longhurst resigned as the manager of Corinthian just hours after his side lost 2-0 to cup double winners Beckenham Town in the Macron Southern Counties East League Challenge Cup at Bromley’s Hayes Lane ground on 5 May.

He was appointed as Chris Cosgrove’s successor a couple of days later and is working towards appointing his backroom staff.

“The successful candidates will be people who have previous experience of working with under 18s and under 21s and will report directly to me and work directly with the Academy manager,” said Longhurst, 33.

“The role is based around the progression of our under 18 Kent Youth and Ryman Youth League players alongside the first team.

“We are looking for a qualified coach of minimum of level two and above.”

To apply, please send your CV and covering letter to Adam Peters – the club secretary – clubsec_erithandbelvederefc@live.com

Interviews will be held with the first team management at the earliest opportunity.

Meanwhile, VCD Athletic, who were promoted with Erith & Belvedere out of the Kent League in May 2013, have confirmed that manager Tony Russell and his assistant Ray Powell are staying put.

The Vickers claimed the Ryman League Division One North title on a dramatic final day of the season.

The Crayford side thrashed Romford 6-0 at Oakwood, but were crowned champions after Witham Town were held to a 1-1 draw away to Cheshunt.

Garry Kimble’s side did, however, secure promotion alongside VCD Athletic after beating Needham Market (1-0) and Harlow Town (3-0) at home in the play-offs.

Chairman Gary Rump said: “We can confirm that they will remain in their respective positions for the forthcoming season.

“The players and management know that playing in the Ryman Premier League will be both challenging and demanding.  However, they know that they will have the full support of everybody associated with VCD Athletic FC.”

Visit Erith & Belvedere’s website: www.erithbelvederefc.co.uk

Visit VCD Athletic’s website: www.pitchero.com/clubs/vcdathleticfc