Erith & Belvedere appoint former Stansfeld pair Billy Hamlin and Jamie Phipps

ERITH & BELVEDERE have appointed former Stansfeld pair Billy Hamlin and Jamie Phipps.

The pair replace Matt Longhurst, who resigned from the job during the post-match press conference after his side lost 2-0 at Merstham on Tuesday night, after just one win from 17 games in all competitions.

The Park View Road outfit remain second-from-bottom in the Isthmian League South East Division table, with 12 points (three wins, three draws and 14 defeats) from 20 games.

The club has appointed Luke Johnson as head coach, whilst youth development managers Craig Boyle, Peter Springett and Marlon Button will play a significant role in supporting the first-team management.

Hamlin and Phipps – their first managerial job in the eighth-tier – enjoyed a promotion and a couple of lengthy FA Vase runs while working without a budget at Stansfeld and it was a shock when the pair parted company with the club in May 2023.

Stanself are now rooted to the foot of the Southern Counties East Football League Premier Division table, with 15 points from 22 games, a point adrift of Welling Town.

The pair take charge of the club for the first time on Sunday (15:00), when fourth-placed Lancing visit Park View Road.  Erith & Belvedere are six points adrift of safety.

“Everyone at Erith & Belvedere FC is determined to bring continued success to the club and as a Board, we will give Billy and Jamie and his staff our full backing,” said a club statement.

“I’m sure our loyal supporters will do likewise by continuing to turn out in big numbers to back the team.

“We would also like to thank everyone who took the time to apply for the position.”

Co-chairman Paul Springett, meanwhile, added: "Really pleased to get Billy, Jamie and Luke on board.  Core family values and a passion for football is what this club is all about.  I was sold on this. 

"This is an opportunity and not a challenge,  I've lived my whole life on opportunities presented to myself.

"I'm also delighted that Craig, Peter and Marlon will be integral to how this club is the one we want to shape it into.

"We are a family , this is us and we are one club. A proud one."