Canterbury City reluctantly accept Chris Woollcott's resignation after Tower Hamlets draw extends their winless run to nine games

CHRIS WOOLLCOTT has stepped down from his role as Canterbury City first-team manager, after extending their winless run to nine games in all competitions.

The Faversham-based club are in the bottom six in the Southern Counties East Football League Premier Division table with 16 points from 19 games, seven points clear of the relegation zone, currently occupied by Lordswood and Tower Hamlets.

Canterbury City came away from bottom-of-the-table Tower Hamlets with a 1-1 draw yesterday, which ended a run of eight straight defeats.

“The club have reluctantly accepted a request from first-team manager Chris Woollcott to step down from his role with immediate effect,” said a club statement.

“We would like to place on record our thanks to Chris for all his hard work, which has more often than not been in difficult circumstances.

“During the enforced breaks in football, Chris was constantly working behind the scenes in trying to improve things in the background.

“He has been responsible for bringing some good people into the club and trying to raise awareness locally. He has been a fundamental part of our club and will be missed.

“Ultimately, it is a results business and Chris was aware there was absolutely no pressure form the board.  However, he has made this decision himself and whilst we are disappointed, we are supportive of him and wish him all the best in the future.”

In the interim, the Canterbury City board have decided that Sam Wilson will step up from assistant and be helped by player-coach Danny Lawrence.

“This will remain the situation for the duration of 2021 and shall be reviewed in the New Year,” added the statement.

Canterbury City are at home to league leaders Chatham Town next Saturday (15:00).

Visit Canterbury City’s website: www.canterburycityfc.net