VINES IS NEW CRAWLEY BOSS

Last updated : 24 February 2003 By Chris Laker
Vines, who has been in charge of the side for a month on a caretaker basis, succeeds former boss Billy Smith, who stepped aside after three years at the helm.

Victor Betanelli will continue in his role as number two alongside the former reserve team coach.

The decision brings to an end a nationwide search where keen interest meant the Reds board had to whittle down their list of high-calibre candidates to just seven names, who have been interviewed over the past fortnight.

Since Smith left the club last month speculation has been rife, with experienced names such as Geoff Chapple and George Borg rumoured to be in the running for the hotseat, along with former Wales goalkeeping legend Neville Southall, who had a brief spell managing Dover Athletic earlier this season.

Along with them, a few ex-professionals eager for their first break into management were said to be interested, with former Millwall striker Kim Grant failing to make the final cut. Former Wales international defender Chris Coleman, now a coach at Premiership Fulham was also mentioned.

However, Vines' appointment should prove popular with the players, who can now focus on getting Reds up the table and into a respectable end of season placing.