CRIBBS | CROUCH READY TO CREATE A BUZZ

Former player gets managerial chance

There has been a change in the hot-seat at Cribbs with former player, Ryan Crouch, handed his first managerial role.

It came after previous manager, Ashley Bennett, who took over at the helm during the summer, announced his decision to step down due to added work commitments following the 2-1 home defeat at the hands of Larkhall Athletic last weekend.

It was a result which leaves the Bristol-based club just above the relegation places in the Pitching In Southern League Division One South having made the play-offs last term, their first at this level.

Crouch spent seven successful years as no-nonsense and reliable centre half before becoming one of a large number of players to leave the club at the end of last season as he followed former manager, Richard Luffman, to Taunton Town.

The former Bristol City academy product found game time limited with the Peacocks compared to what he has been used to and departed the club in search of more game time before landing this new role and his first step on the managerial ladder.

“This is a fantastic opportunity for me,” said Crouch. “Getting into management is something that I wanted to do, so to be able to do it at a club that means so much to me is perfect.

“I’d like to thank Ash [Bennett] for all the hard work he has done to get this team together from what he had in the summer to now. It gives me a base to work from and the boys have been brilliant so far and given me everything.

“I am looking forward to the challenge ahead and creating a buzz around the place. This is an opportunity that I will be looking to grab with both hands.”

Chairman, Nick Veale, added: “It’s clear that we have now formed a very tight-knit group of players who want to be at this club thanks to the efforts of Ash and the previous managerial team.

“Crouchy's interest in management is something that I have always been aware of, so it was no surprise when he chucked his hat into the ring after Ash decided to step down at the weekend.

“He is a deep thinker about the game and after discussions with my Vice Chairman, Simon Hartley, along with the rest of the Committee, we unanimously feel Ryan meets our requirements, both now and as we progress forward.

“I have much enjoyed working with Ash over the last six months. The club was in a period of transition when Ash came in and he has worked tirelessly to improve our squad during this period.”

A trip to Thatcham Town awaits on Saturday for Cribbs.

IMAGE: Lizzie Boyes

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