Northern Senior League Division One Smiths Athletic 2

Lydbrook Athletic 0

MIKE Edwards has stepped down as manager of Northern Senior Division Two outfit Lydbrook Athletic.

Edwards said the loss of nine players to other clubs since the start of the season was the main reason for his departure.

He said: "I still want to help out, but Andy Clements is going to take over for a month. He knows the younger players better than I do."

Lydbrook have been rocked by the loss of Mike Nelson, Derek Roberts and Mark Weyman to Ellwood, along with Steve Blaby to Milkwall and Shaun Bamford to Viney.

More recently, influential midfielder Danny Mason joined Soudley.

Edwards added: "Lydbrook is a cracking club and everything is there for players. However, it's time to rebuild."

Lydbrook battled hard against Smiths Athletic on Saturday, but went down to two late goals.

Both keepers made good saves in the first-half.

Damian Edwards had a long range effort stopped, while Mike Etheridge hit the woodwork after rounding the keeper.

Lydbrook keeper Craig Edwards also saved a 70th minute penalty.

Smiths took the lead eight minutes from time when a smart through-ball caught them square at the back.

Their second goal came from a free-kick that deflected in off Simon Holland.

Lydbrook's men of the match were Craig Edwards and Tom Creed.

Lydbrook Athletic: Craig Edwards, Grant Lawrence, Alex Porter, Simon Holland, Craig Broadman, James Creed, Damian Edwards, Tom Creed, Greg Burford, Mike Etheridge, James Turley. Sub: Lee Hanson.