Spriggs returns to Vickers to run reserves

Thursday 01st July 2010

VCD ATHLETIC have today unveiled that former player Kevin Spriggs has been appointed the club’s new reserve team manager, writes Stephen McCartney.

Spriggs made 68 appearances for the Crayford based club after first being signed by Martin Ford, and is fondly remembered for scoring the vital goal against favourites AFC Totton in the FA Vase a few years back, as the club progressed in the competition.

Spriggs replaces Ricky Bennett, who has recently been appointed first team manager, following Paul Foley’s defection to Chatham Town.

The Medway side have since switched to Ryman League Division One North, and it appears that Foley wants to replicate the team spirit (at his new club) that he had at Oakwood last season, where he lead the club to eighth place in the same division, before Vickers were controversially demoted due to ground grading issues.

Spriggs brings with him a wealth of experience, having played for Dartford, Erith & Belvedere and Chatham Town, before leaving the Vickers in the championship winning season to join neighbours Erith Town and gain experience as player-coach.

Spriggs will be assisted by Harry Gibbs, as the club try to build on last year’s success in grooming players for the first tam.

A club statement issued to www.kentishfootball.co.uk today said: “The Vickers pre-season training began yesterday evening with an encouraging attendance and with more expected this coming Saturday, the atmosphere remains positive.

“With the disappointment of demotion from the Ryman League fading, there is an air of optimism around the club as it looks forward to the new season.

“Ricky and Kevin will be working hard with chairman Gary Rump to take things forward, as the club eagerly awaits publication of the opening Kent League fixtures.”

Meanwhile, VCD Athletic, have today confirmed their pre-season programme - with all six games being played at Oakwood, Old Road, Crayford.

New boss Bennett will asses his new look squad during matches against Southend Manor (17 July), Tonbridge Angels (20 July), Bridon Ropes (24 July), Cray Valley (29 July, 6:45pm), Phoenix Sports (31 July) and Cray Wanderers (3 August).