Airbus UK Broughton: Boss Craig Harrison delighted with arrival of Roger Preece and says Kristian Roberts is staying put

Nov 25 2010 by Paul Glynn, Flintshire Chronicle

OFFICIALS at the Airfield have diagnosed a coaching reshuffle as the solution to Airbus UK Broughton’s ailing season.

The Welsh Premier League club, who have endured a run of 13 games without a win, this week took the decision to bring in former Chester and Wrexham player Roger Preece to assist manager Craig Harrison.

And the Wingmakers boss will be glad of all the help he can get in stopping the rot.

Harrison said: “Carl Darlington previously did an excellent job for me but has never been replaced.

“We’ve been taking our time since the start of the season to wait for the ideal candidate.

“I wanted an A License coach, who had played professionally and has experience of playing and managing in this league.

“I hadn’t heard much about Roger, but he was recommended to me and after meeting him it was clear he ticked all of these boxes.”

Harrison, whose side lost 2-0 at Port Talbot on Saturday, added: “I’m a relatively young manager at 32 and so he will add experience to the club.”

Preece began his managerial career at Newtown in the Welsh Premier League in 2003 and has since held coaching roles at Gap Queen’s Park, Connah’s Quay and Technogroup Welshpool.

Preece, who also coaches at Wrexham FC’s centre of excellence is looking forward to taking his place in the dugout alongside Harrison and first-team coach Andrew Thomas for Friday’s home clash with leaders Bangor City (7.30pm).

The 41-year-old said: “I have been impressed with the way Craig spoke so passionately about the club and his drive and determination to take Airbus forward.

“I am looking forward to joining an ambitious club that has made great strides over the last few years.”

Chairman Paul McKinlay added: “Airbus UK Broughton are delighted Roger has agreed to join us. His knowledge and experience will be vital as we look to recapture our early season form.

Craig Harrison has rubbished reports that goalkeeper Kristian Rogers could be on his way back to his old club, Port Talbot Town.

The Airbus manager said: “I don’t know anything about that and its not a worry to me.”

“He’s under contract here and is not going anywhere.”