Brett Munyard has left Aveley to take over as manager of Brentwood Town, a move that came just two days before the two clubs faced each other in the FA Cup second qualifying round.

Munyard, who guided Aveley to the Isthmian Premier League playoffs last season, was appointed by Brentwood following the recent departure of Keith Rowland. Rowland, who previously managed Wingate & Finchley, led Brentwood to the play-off final in May during their first campaign at Step 3 after winning the Isthmian North title. However, a series of notable summer exits—including top scorer Danny Ogunleye’s transfer to Ebbsfleet—contributed to a slow start this season, with Brentwood recording only one victory in their first seven matches.

Announcing the decision on social media platform X, Munyard acknowledged the difficulty of the move, expressing regret at leaving Aveley. He said his time with the club had been deeply personal, dedicating himself fully to its success over the past 18 months and thanked those involved for their support.

Aveley chairman Craig Johnson described the timing of Munyard’s departure as “disappointing,” noting that the manager informed the club just before training and shortly before the important FA Cup fixture against Brentwood. Johnson confirmed that assistant Adam Bailey-Dennis would take charge of Aveley for the match and urged the club’s supporters to rally behind the team despite the disruption.

The FA Cup tie between the two clubs took place amid this unexpected managerial change, adding an unusual backdrop to their contest. Munyard’s move highlights the challenges faced by clubs at this level, where managerial changes and player transfers can have an immediate impact on team dynamics and results.