New management for Shetland Football team as Bristow returns

Former blues boss Niall Bristow has been announced as the new manager of the county side along with Kevin Main.

Shetland Football Association made the announcement tonight.

Bristow had two spells in charge of the county side, with a gold medal in the Island Games and the blues reaching the semi-finals in Jersey last year, missing out to the Isle of Man.

The association began the search for new management team following the shock resignation of John Scott Christie and Alan Graham.

Assistant coach Kevin Main agreed to remain in post to help the side through their first round North Caledonian tie against St Duthus with Bristow teaming up with Main.

A statement on the association’s website said: “The committee were very heartened indeed with the response when seeking a new manager.

“Five applicants were received, a subcommittee interviewed three candidates who all presented well with a mix of very good experience and qualifications.

“After hours of interviews and deliberation it was decided that the aforementioned should be appointed.

“Today they duly were.

“The committee would like to publicly thank the others who took time to apply and attend interview, it is hoped that they all remain and become involved in our sport moving on.”

Bristow said he was “delighted” to have the opportunity to manage the side again.

He told the association: “I know at first hand the quality of the players we have and was very impressed with Kevin’s coaching abilities during the short lead-up and during the fixture with St Duthus.

“These factors convinced me that the time was right to lead the players into an Island Games campaign and beyond.

“We are grateful to the committee, who strive tirelessly for the good of Shetland senior football, to have been selected for the post.”

The second round fixture of the Football Times Cup is held on 1st October in Golspie against Alness United.