Radical changes on way for Dragons (From Barry And District News)

Radical changes on way for Dragons

AT THE time of going to press it is difficult to make an assessment of just what is going on at Jenner Park.

It is understood that a new board of directors will shortly be put in place with hands-on acting chairman Dr Richard Stott at the forefront.

Certain measures are under way which may radically change the whole structure of Barry Town AFC. It seems that a statement will be made today (Thursday).

Barry's limited playing squad, already decimated by the departures of York, Lloyd, Jenkins, French, Byrne, Ovendale and Moss, are training.

Nathan Cotterill and Lawrence Davies are injured and will not play against Aberystwyth next week.

Kenny Brown had no choice but to release Mark Ovendale. The ex-Luton keeper impressed York in training and Kenny released him to return to league soccer.

Gary Lloyd has joined Terry Evans at Newport whilst Jon French is now a Weston player.

Meanwhile Kenny Brown has the job of completing his squad from triallists, in a short space of time.

Moralee, Morgan, Kennedy, Jarman, Ramasut, Akinfenwa, Ocquaye, Molloy and Phillips are the players from last year's squad who are in training.

The players were devastated by comments alleging that they are taking second place to creditors, and that the club has no chance of challenging for honours.

The majority of the players are loyal and have been through a great deal. They deserve a pat on the back, and need the support of the new board.

There are many people who are willing to do more to help the club move forward and a more democratic approach may prove fruitful.

Dr Richard Stott has only just come out of hospital after a serious illness and is now recovering at home. He was anxious to assure News readers that he wants to establish the exact position of the club once he is fit enough.

His relationship with the players is excellent and his integrity is beyond question. On the playing side Kenny has bolstered his squad with the signing of 6ft 5in keeper Duncan Roberts, a former Norwich trainee and recently at Oldham and Luton.

Also training this week are local lads Mike Emery and John Hinder. Emery has a reputation as a goal scorer whilst Hinder is a left wing back. Also in contention and already signed is another 17-year-old Luke Sherbourne.

Kenny may not have the biggest squad in the world, but he has to run a very tight ship. He may well play himself against Aberystwyth a week on Friday night at Jenner Park. Lee Jarman misses out through suspension.

Barry people who are genuinely interested in the club's survival are urged to come to Jenner Park at 7.30pm on August 15, to cheer the lads on to victory and to show the rest of Wales that Barry Town is not done and dusted yet!