Ace Olly poised to stay at Rye

The club’s young player of the year last season has made his decision to remain at The Salts, despite strong interest from local rivals Hastings United.

Lockyer, 19, made a huge impact for Rye towards the back end of the 2012/13 campaign and his re-signing comes as a huge boost to the club.

“Olly has made the decision to stick with Rye for another season,” joint boss Marc Gall said. “I’m made up with his choice as I think he’ll play a big role for us next year.

“He’s shown his loyalty to us and is convinced that by staying with us he’s working with the right people. This is a big season for Olly and if he can carry on showing people what he’s capable of, we’ll move him on when all parties agree he’s ready.”

“It’s great to be able to keep the core of last year’s team. We finished strongly so it’s like we can carry on building. We’re also still chasing two or three new additions but nothing is done yet.”

Lockyer picked up his young player award at the club’s presentation night last Friday. Sean Kelly picked up the players’ player award, while Andy Atkin collected managers’ player.

Goal of the season went to Matt Maclean for his headed effort at home to East Grinstead Town, though Gall stated if he could’ve broken the award in half, he would’ve handed a piece to Lockyer for his superb ‘Messi-esque’ cross with one foot behind the other which gave Maclean a simple finish.

Gall also reserved a special mention for ‘an unreal contribution’ from Micky O’Callaghan, who at the age of 39 was a mainstay in the side all season. See tomorrow’s Rye Observer for the full article.