Dev bows out in style (09.05.03)

ALAN Devonshire's reign at York Road reached a fairytale ending on Monday, as Maidenhead United tore Aylesbury apart in the Berks & Bucks Cup final.
Quite simply, the Ducks had no response to one of United's best displays of attacking football ever seen, home or away.
Delighted with a stunning 4-1 win, Devonshire's day was made even better by the tumultuous applause he received from players and fans alike, as he hoisted the trophy.
However, there was a definite hint of sadness amid the celebrations, as the truth finally dawned that United had reached the end of an era.
Devonshire said of the win: “It’s a nice way to go out. I was worried about letting the boys down by leaving, but they've responded brilliantly.
“Everyone played well. It was a great team performance. We totally murdered them."
And he was particularly impressed with the devastating partnership between Adrian Allen and Lawrence Yaku, adding: "They were unplayable. Yaku had a hat-trick but he could have had six."
The result was especially pleasing in light of some very high profile absences from the midfield, including influential skipper Paul Kelly and the mercurial Matt Glynn.
Fortunately, United now have strength in depth, a fact which was forcefully demonstrated by outstanding performances from Richard O'Connor, Andy Cook and Craig Webster, who totally dominated the middle of the park.
Cook and O’Connor have both been terrific over recent weeks, but the surprise package was young wing-back Craig Webster, who performed admirably in front of the back three.
Devonshire added: “Webster has been terrific for us. I can always rely on him.
“He had a really bad injury but he’s bounced back. And, like Morley, he can play anywhere.”
In contrast to Monday's tour de force, Saturday's victory at York Road – United's third league win on the trot – was a low-key stroll in the park.
Many had expected Devonshire to rest his main players ahead of the cup final, but in a show of respect for the Wood – and other sides in the relegation battle – an almost full strength side produced a controlled performance to emerge 2-1 winners.
Devonshire explained “We had to do it for the rest of the league. You have to do it right. That’s what we’d want if it was us and we’d expect that from other sides."
Perhaps unsurprisingly, Devonshire was less forthcoming about his plans for the future.
The questions on most people's lips are, is Devonshire staying in management and, if so, has he landed a new job yet?
To which he replied “Yes. I want to get straight back into it,” and “Not yet.”
And, despite rumours of an imminent move, Devonshire claimed to have no clear objectives, adding: "Whatever comes along really. As long as they’re ambitious."

SING WHEN YOU’RE WINNING: Alan Devonshire celebrates the Magpies’ successful defence of the Berks & Bucks Cup on Bank Holiday Monday. Ref:81523/10.