Ex-Hastings boss signs for Rye

Dolby, who started his career at Millwall, put pen to paper on Tuesday night and is expected to start at centre-half in the FA Vase third round tie at home to South Park tomorrow (Saturday).

Rye manager Scott Price said: “He’s quite excited about it to be honest. It’s a new challenge for him and probably his last challenge. He can’t commit week in, week out because of work, but that suits me really to a degree.”

Dolby started his playing career with Millwall before enjoying spells with Barnet, Northampton Town and Notts County, and in the Conference with Gravesend & Northfleet and Welling United.

He also played for Chesham United, Fisher Athletic, and Tonbridge Angels, who he later managed and led to promotion from Ryman Division One South via the play-offs in 2006.

Dolby had his first spell as Hastings boss between January and May 2008 when he led a successful battle against relegation. His second stint at The Pilot Field was between February 2009 and December 2010.

Erith-based Dolby, who managed several current Rye players at Hastings, has since played for Ryman League Premier Division club Cray Wanderers.

Rye will welcome back Sam Adams, who scored a hat-trick in the first round win over a Horley Town side which is one point above South Park having played four more games, following a one-match ban.

Micky O’Callaghan is away and still struggling with injury in any case, but Andy Atkin expects to be fit despite coming off against Arundel on Saturday.

With Dominic Clarke and Chris Gould cup-tied, Price has persuaded Scott Ramsay to be part of the squad. Ramsay has had a few games in local football for Rock-a-Nore lately.