End of an era at Herne Bay as keeper Dan Eason departs for Hythe Town with Rob French signing for Simon Halsey's side
by Alex Hoad
Simon Halsey says Herne Bay are entering a new era after
long-standing keeper Dan Eason left the club to join ambitious
Hythe Town.
The Bay boss paid a glowing tribute to Eason who has opted to
join the Ryman League, Division 1 South promotion-chasers.
Halsey said: "He’s been here five years and has won the
supporters’ and manager’s player of the season three times. It is a
big loss for us.
"The biggest surprise for me is that we managed to hold on to
him for five years. Hythe were the first team to come in for
him."
Halsey added: "It’s not about money, they can offer him the
chance to play at a higher level quicker than we can, a better
pitch to play on and better training facilities.
"We spoke about it for hours and he was in turmoil but I admire
his honesty and am fully behind his decision."
Bay immediately signed former Whitstable and Faversham keeper
Rob French (pictured) and Halsey said: "If ever there was a
good time for Dan to go it was when Rob had just become available.
They are both top keepers, two of the best in Kent.
"Rob’s got bags of experience, with a different skill set to Dan
but it’s the start of a new era for us."
Bay visit Burgess Hill on Saturday and host Eastbourne on
Wednesday, having taken just two points from their last eight
league games, the latest being the 1-0 home loss to Chipstead on
Saturday.
Do you think French can fill Eason's gloves at Winch's
Field? Have your say below.
09/01/13
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