Ives sign experienced trio
St Ives Town Manager Ricky Marheineke has made a triple signing as pre-season preparations begin ahead of their new surrounds in the Northern Premier League Midlands.
Joining the Ives are Michael Gash, Dan Lawlor and Mark Jones. All three have played together before at Peterborough Sports who were relegated last season from step two National League North.
Gash, who is predominantly a striker, but can also operate as a defender arrives at the Quattro-Tech Westwood Road with many years’ experience playing at top level non-league football. After starting out at Cambridge City, he made the switch to Cambridge United before returning to City for a second spell. He then played for Ebbsfleet and York before returning to Cambridge United. Moves to Kidderminster and Barnet followed before a four-year spell at Kings Lynn Town where he scored 40 times in 139 appearances. A switch to Peterborough Sports followed where he also had two spells as manager.
Midfielder Dan Lawlor is no stranger to the Ives after being on loan last season. He enjoyed a lengthy spell at Peterborough Sports and was part of the Turbines squad who progressed through the leagues to claim a spot in the National League North. He was released by the club in 2024 and made the move to Spalding from where he was loaned to the Ives last season.
Centre forward Mark Jones signs for the Ives after also being on loan at the Quattro-Tech Westwood Road last season. Like Lawlor, he enjoyed a lengthy spell at Peterborough Sports but has also played for Boston United, Spalding and Gainsborough.
Commenting on signing the trio Ives Manager Ricky Marheineke said “Being able to sign Michael, Dan and Mark is massive for me personally and for the team. Firstly, they are unbelievable people, and I feel privileged they have chosen to spend the season with the club. All three are top players, and will bring so much leadership, experience and quality to the squad. Michael will lead the team as captain along with Mark whilst Dan will assist me with coaching sessions. I’m really excited and can’t wait to get stuck into this season.”
All three players are likely to be in the Ives squad that travels to March Town United tomorrow for the opening pre-season friendly.
