DOWNTON have gained a striker but lost a goalkeeper as they prepare for their return to the top flight of the Sydenhams Wessex League.

Frontman Danny Sullivan has switched to Wick Lane from Andover, but the Robins are flabbergasted to have lost 19-year-old goalkeeper Glen Craven to Amesbury Town, who finished fourth to bottom of Division 2.

"It's amazing really," said shocked Downton boss Jeff Softley. "I always thought Glen wanted to play in the top flight.

"I think Amesbury have offered him £30 a week whereas at Downton he's only on a win bonus. I'm shocked, but only time will tell if it's the right or wrong move for him."

Softley, though, is delighted to have 26-year-old Sullivan on board.

The striker/wide man rejoined Andover from Thatcham Town in November last year having been part of the Lions squad who reached the FA Vase quarter-finals in 2003/4.

"It's a good signing," said Softley, who can't wait to get back among the Wessex elite after a season in Division 2.

"Danny's got a decent scoring record playing either as a centre forward or wide right for Andover."

Dan Smith, a member of last season's first-team squad, has been appointed player-manager of Downton's reserves. He will be assisted by Dave Woods, who has been running Romsey Town reserves.

Jamie Laidlaw, Gosport Borough's leading scorer last season, has decided to find a new club.

The striker had asked for more time to consider his future at Privett Park, but in the meantime manager Alex Pike went out and signed front runners James Thornby from BAT and Stuart Findlay from Bemerton Heath.