Newton Aycliffe have confirmed that Player/Coach Adrian Webster has been installed as the club’s new manager, in the wake of the shock resignation of Dan Mellanby last weekend.
Ironically, Webster was one of Mellanby’s first signings when he himself took over the reins at Moore Lane Park just six weeks ago, replacing long term boss Allan Oliver.
Webster, 35, took charge of his first match this evening, a 0-0 draw at home to Division Two outfit Darlington RA. Gary Farley will continue in his role of Assistant Manager, despite being absent from the dugout due to a family holiday.
The move sees Webster, a former New Zealand international, take up his first managerial post, following a career which has seen him play for Colchester United, Charlton Athletic and Darlington in the football league.
Webster returned to Aycliffe this summer after 18 months with Bishop Auckland, having previously played a handful of games for the Newtonians back in 2012-13.
• Aycliffe dominated their game with rivals Darlington RA in front of a crowd of 79, with Lewis Wing twice striking the upright for the hosts. Craig Mickle and Tom Atkinson both tested goalkeeper Matty Calvert while the closest the visitors came was when Freddie Huscroft tested Andrew Spence from the edge of the area. Aycliffe conclude their pre-season campaign on Saturday when they host Athersley Recreation from Barnsley.