Bristol Manor Farm Football Club can confirm that forward Owen Brain has departed The NL Services Stadium to join National League North side Gloucester City.
Brain, who joined the Farmers towards the end of the 23/24 pre-season campaign, became an instant hit with the club and its supporters for his efforts both on and off the field. Manor Farm had captain Jamie Adams to thank for bringing him across the Avon from Step 3 Merthyr Town, and he certainly delivered on the opening day at Thame United in the Extra Preliminary Round of the FA Cup, scoring a dramatic debut winner after coming on as a substitute. Just two matches later, Brain’s devastating run of goals continued as he notched in a hat-trick at The NL Services Stadium against Roman Glass St George.
Addressing the club, Manager Lee Lashenko expressed utmost admiration for the departing Brain: “Owen became part of our club based on Jamie Adams’ recommendation, and from that moment onward, there was no turning back. There are instances where you have to rely on your players, and Owen became a valuable addition due to his strong personal and professional bond with Jamie. It was evident after that night in Avonmouth, we all just fell in love by both his character and playing abilities. We constantly strive to elevate attacking talent, and Owen has undeniably made significant contributions as a forward for Bristol Manor Farm.”
Brain becomes the second player in 12 months to pursue a great opportunity in the National League System, following Jake Gosling’s departure to Rushall Olympic last summer, and Lashenko firmly believes that Bristol Manor Farm is the number one location for younger players to develop themselves both personally and professionally.
“Whilst we are sad to see Owen leave us at a crucial stage in the season, we hold each other in the highest regard, and we are really looking forward to watching his development at a brilliant club in Gloucester City. I know that he’s loved playing for us and the support he has been given from the Farmy Army. He’s a top player and a top lad, and will always be welcome back at The Farm – whether that be as a player or supporter.
Brain scored 11 Southern League goals for Manor Farm this season and six domestic competition goals, including FA Cup and FA Trophy goals. Whilst he is the current top scorer at the club, Lashenko knows that the Farm will continue to move forward as a strong unit in the remaining matches of the 23/24 season.
“With Owen’s departure, there are plenty of opportunities for other players to shine. We know that there is an abundance of attacking quality within our squad, and Saturday’s trip to Tavistock will see someone else fill that void across the pitch. We’re fully prepared for the match and we can’t wait to get back on the pitch.”
Bristol Manor Farm would like to express its utmost gratitude to Owen for his services to the club, and we know that the Farmy Army will join us in wishing him the very best in his move to the National League North at Gloucester City.