SCOTT O’Rourke has been talked out of retirement by Alresford Town boss Martin Beck.

The experienced former Sholing, Winchester City and Brockenhurst goalkeeper was ready to hang up his gloves after making 18 appearances for Blackfield & Langley last season.

But Beck, who has known O’Rourke since they played together for Hampshire as 16-year-olds, reckons early retirement would be a criminal waste of talent.

“Scott’s a good mate of mine and he was going to retire, but I’ve managed to talk him round,” he said.

“He’s still only 32 or 33 and he keeps himself very fit. He must have another five or six years in him yet.”

As well as being a solid shot-stopper, O’Rourke is one of the most vocal goalkeepers on the Sydenhams Premier circuit and Beck believes his outgoing personality will be a big plus in the Mapgies’ dressing room.

“Scott’s definitely a character and he’ll bring a good bit of banter along with his experience,” he smiled.

With Danny Leeds seemingly heading for AFC Portchester, O’Rourke will have Gary Morrison for competition for the No1 shirt.

Former Farnborough, Havant & Waterlooville and Sutton United goalkeeper Kevin Scriven remains at Arlebury Park as a coach but is still awaiting a shoulder operation.

“I’ve signed Kev on just in case Scott or Gary get injured,” Beck explained.

Alresford have yet to confirm any outfield signings, but Beck is chuffed to have re-signed all of last season’s squad.

That includes promising centre-back Jamie Bentley who has opted to stay put despite overtures from Wessex title hopefuls Winchester City.

Bentley, younger brother of Winchester hot-shot Warren, was given permission to speak to City’s director of football Dave Malone but politely declined a move.

Beck said: “Dave rang me first before speaking to Jamie, which was good of him, and I said it was fine to go ahead.

“Jamie had a chat with Dave and then spoke to me and said he didn’t really want to go anywhere and that he wanted to stay.

“There’s a bit of brotherly rivalry going on and Jamie keeps saying he wants to play up front and score more goals than Warren! But I rate him highly as a defender and that’s where I want him to play.

“Jamie’s dad Mark has been around the club for years and he’s going to be helping with the coaching next season.

 "All we need now is Warren back!" he joked.