EXCLUSIVE: Neville Powell’s first interview since taking over as Aber boss

A year on from his departure from Bangor City, experienced Welsh Premier League manager Neville Powell is back in management. 

After the departures of Matthew Bishop and most recently Tony Pennock, Aberystwyth seemed to have run out of luck. But, today they revealed the manager who masterminded Bangor City’s famous title win in 2010, as the man to take them forward and suddenly, there is an aura of optimism at Park Avenue.

Powell stated his excitement at taking on the role and his respect for the club in his previous years in management played a key role in attracting the experienced manager to the vacant managerial role.

“I’m really honoured to be able to take over the reigns at Aberystwyth Town. They are a big club in the league with a fantastic history and have a great board of directors and supporters who want the club to succeed, similar to when I took over at Bangor City, so I’m really looking forward to the challenge ahead. 

Since I left Bangor, I became a grandad for the first time and was just going to watch a few games; it was my first break in twenty two years of managing. Like I said I always enjoyed going to play and manage at Aberystwyth, you always get a good reception there and meet proper football people. I have only had three clubs in over 30 years so I hope my experience can bring Aberystwyth the success they deserve.”

Powell experienced fantastic success at the Citizens, winning the Welsh Premier League in 2010 the stand out achievement, as they went on a 15 match unbeaten run to start the season. Their success has not been matched since, as their against the odds title win, has never been relegated, leaving his side the last part-time side to win the league. However, he’s not so confident that the same feat can be achieved again.

“Obviously, for a part time team to win the league it was amazing and probably won’t happen again for a long time, as clubs have invested and got a lot stronger in recent years.”

However, the new Aber manager still maintains high hopes for the Black and Greens ahead of the coming season.

“Our main aim like every season will be to finish in the top six which is a challenge in itself. I’m optimistic we can improve and be really competive in the season ahead.”

Few would have had optimism ahead of the coming season, but things will have vastly changed after today’s appointment. Powell brings with him an experience and an expertise that will no doubt attract numerous players to Park Avenue before the transfer window closes and the manager himself acknowledges transfer recruits are necessary.

“We have a small squad there at the minute and will be looking at bringing in a few experienced Welsh premier players in the next week or two ready for the first game at Barry which we are all looking forward to.”

Things are beginning to look up at Aberystwyth Town. With Wayne Jones still there as assistant, and Powell as the number one man, the Mid Wales outfit are in good hands heading into the season, despite a brief period of turmoil and change.

Despite some instability over the last year, Powell will be hoping to bring some solidity to the side that flirted with relegation last season.

However, with the former Connah’s Quay Nomads manager, despite a whole year away from the game, one thing is certain. It’s business as usual for Neville Powell.