NEWMAN STAYING WITH PIRATES

KYLE Newman is to remain in the Poole team after a successful 28-day spell as cover for Dan Gilkes.

The Pirates have elected to extend Newman’s deal into a full-time place despite the recent return from injury of Gilkes, who sat out the early weeks of the season to give his knee issues further time to heal.

Promoter Dan Ford said: “Firstly, I’d like to thank Dan Gilkes for his professionalism throughout this situation. He has been fantastic to deal with and I’m gutted that we’re not able to welcome him into the Pirates line-up as intended at this stage.

“I truly wish Dan all the best and hope we can see him don the skull and crossbones in the future.

“Kyle has come in and done a fantastic job for us, particularly at home where he’s been excellent, and that’s made the decision a more difficult one.

“We know there’s still more to come from him away from home, but on current form Kyle is keeping his place in the Pirates line-up and we’re looking forward to seeing him continue that progress in the coming meetings.”