Marley to remain with New Brighton

Press, Volume CXI, Issue 32635, 17 June 1971, Page 20

Marley to remain with New Brighton

After three days of bitter negotiations, during which he resigned twice, the 20-year-old striker, A. Marley, has decided to remain with the Southern League title contender, New Brighton.

On Sunday, after only his second Southern League match for his former club, Marley resigned from New Brighton to join the National League club, Christchurch United. He gave $lOO back

to Brighton. On Monday, Marley, who was a leading scorer with Dover in the English Southern League last season, trained with Christchurch

United at Rangers Park. A deputation from Brighton talked with Marley at his Aranui home later that evening, and he withdrew his resignation. He resigned again on Tuesday, and did not train with New Brighton; but it is understood that Brighton later offered Marley another $lOO besides the original $lOO it had given him again. Maney had not appeared happy with the football in Southern League, although he scored four goals in the two matches. He said previously that be still intended to return to British football, probably at the end of next month. During that time, he could help New Brighton in its bid for a place in the Rothman’s National League next season. Marley says now that he is unsure whether or not he will return to England, al-

though Dover has asked him

“It all depends on what happens in the next two months,” he said.

Of the on-again-off-again events of the last three days, Marley said: “I’m sick of the whole business, and I don’t know what to think, but I’ve made my decision and I’m staying with New Brighton.” Mr R. Storer sen., the president of the New Brighton club, which has shown strength in its determination to hold Marley, said: "I am very pleased he has decided to stay with New Brighton, particularly in view of the football facing the club, and our aim to get into the National League.” Marley’s father, Mr P. Marley, has been a New Brighton supporter for years, and will be pleased his son has decided to stay with the chib.* The coach of Christchurch United (Mr T. G Conley) said: “I am naturally disappointed, but Marley has made his decision, and I don’t want to see him upset any more.” Marley said he had not signed a contract for New Brighton. He is expected to play again on Saturday, in Brighton’s vital Gillette Chatham Cup tie against the other Southern League title contender, Technical, in the main match at English Park.