APSA rocked as Ward leaves

11 July 2007

LONDON APSA manager Lee Ward has this week announced that he will be stepping down with immediate effect, writes LUKE WILSON.

The news has come as something of a surprise for all involved at the Newham club as Ward, the former Ilford and Hornchurch goalkeeper, had only been installed as boss at the back end of last season.

The outgoing manager cited 'personal reasons' behind his decision to leave the Terence Mcmillan Stadium outfit.

With the club's pre-season fixtures due to start this Saturday with a trip to Ryman One South side Dulwich Hamlet, chairman Zulfi Ali announced that Zakir Hussain will take over until a new manager is appointed.

"Zakir knows all about the club and will be in temporary charge for the first friendlies," said Ali.

"We will start to organise some interviews and appoint someone permanent after that."

APSA have meanwhile announced their full programme of pre-season friendlies.

On Saturday, July 21 they travel to near neighbours Euro Dagenham for a 3pm kick-off.

The following Saturday, July 28 they face a trip to Wickham Park, kick-off at 2.45pm, before visiting Breamstead on Tuesday, July 31 for a 7.45pm start.

APSA will travel to Erith Town on Saturday, August 4 for a 3pm kick-off, before concluding their friendly schedule with a trip to Tunbridge Wells on Tuesday, August 7, kick-off at 7.45pm.

n The Essex Senior Football League will have 17 clubs this season after announcing the inclusion of Mauritius Sports & Pennant into the constitution for the forthcoming 2007/08 season.

Mauritius, who were granted senior status by the Essex County FA in midweek, will groundshare with Aveley FC for the coming season.

Another new team for APSA to visit this year will be Enfield 1863, formerly Enfield, who were demoted from Ryman One North, due to financial reasons.