Lillis steps down as Herne Bay manager

HERNE BAY have this week appointed assistant Barry Morgan as their new manager after Jason Lillis stepped down through increased work commitments, writes Stephen McCartney.

Morgan has been appointed the club’s new manager with immediate effect as former Gillingham and Maidstone United star Lillis couldn’t committed 100% to the Kent League club.

Herne Bay reached the semi-finals of the Kent League Cup in each of Lillis’ four seasons at Winch’s Field, going on to reach the final in 2005 before losing both the Kent League title and Kent League Cup final to promoted Ramsgate.

A statement, issued by club chairman, Mr John Bathurst, explained the situation over Lillis’ departure.

“Jason has informed the club that owing to his continued work commitments he can not guarantee being able to give 100% of his time to the needs of the football club,” Mr Bathurst told www.hernebayfc.net.

“At this crucial time when all clubs are looking to form the basis of their squad for the forthcoming season it has been agreed that Jason will stand down and assistant manager Barry Morgan will take over as manager for next season.

“It is hoped that this will ensure continuity between the management and current players, building on the success of the youth players, currently playing in the first team.

“Jason will be keeping in touch with the club and hopes to return to us some time in the future.

“The club would like to thank Jason for the massive contribution he has made to Herne Bay Football Club.

“Although the club have not collected any silverware, he has reached the semi-final of the League Cup for four successive seasons; reaching the final once where we lost to Ramsgate. He also achieved runners up spot in the league, again losing to Ramsgate.”

Lillis leaves Herne Bay sitting in seventh place in the Kent League table with a record of 47 points (13 wins and 8 draws from 30 games).

Twenty-five points behind champions-elect Thamesmead Town, Bay end their campaign with a home game against Tunbridge Wells tomorrow and a trip to Bromley outfit Holmesdale next Saturday.

Visit Herne Bay’s website: www.hernebayfc.net