NEVILLE Roach's decision to reject Salisbury City and stay at Basingstoke Town has cemented the affection Camrose Blues supporters have for the skilful striker.

Salisbury made a huge £7,500 second bid for Roach thanks to new benefactor David Malone's money, which was accepted by Ernie Howe.

But after talks with City boss Nick Holmes, Roach (pictured above) had no hesitation turning the move down and revealed why in Monday's Gazette.

He cited his love for Basingstoke Town and the desire to shoot the club back into the Nationwide South play-offs as major factors.

He also stated: "I don't want to leave because I still think we can make the play-offs and I want to score the goals that will get us back up there."

He added: "There's a good chance Salisbury will be in Ryman one next season, whereas we're still in with a chance of the play-offs and possible promotion."

Roach's decision has delighted Town fans and they have this week expressed their joy on the official website forum.

BTFC website administrator Kevin O'Byrne wrote: "Neville has shown great loyalty. Then to turn out against St Albans and show some of his best form of the season, scoring a hat-trick, was really impressive.

"He always gives us 100 per cent. We really can't ask more from the man, so cheers Nev."

Roach has always done well in the supporters' end-of-season awards over the past few seasons, particularly in the Away Player of the Season category.

And another impressed fan, Pete Woods, reckons the 18-goal forward is primed to win again in two months.

He wrote: "Isn't it nice to see a player display loyalty? He must have been offered a fair bit to go to Salisbury, but chose to stay here. I know who my player of the season is going to be."

Adding to the plaudits, Basingstoke Town press officer Ian Trodd said: "When the supporters heard the news that Roachy had turned down a move and a possible big pay day to stay loyal to us, all have said what an absolute star he is.

"To turn that down to stay put shows how committed the player is to BTFC. All supporters have nothing but respect for Roachy."

Roach has scored five goals in three games and is hoping to continue that run.

First published: Friday, March 11, 2005