Warrilow will be a huge success at Tonbridge, says Hornets boss

Horsham boss John Maggs feels he has lost a “family member” today, writes Stephen McCartney.

Maggs’ assistant manager Tommy Warrilow has left Queen Street to become the new manager of their Ryman Premier League rivals, Tonbridge Angels.

Warrilow and Cliff Cant were this morning unveiled as the new management team of second from bottom Tonbridge Angels, following the departures of Tony Dolby and Mike Rutherford eight days ago.

Warrilow, a former Tonbridge player, had been Maggs’ number two since January 2004 and played a major role in the club’s success during that time.

Mags admitted that it’s a massive blow to the west Sussex club, but insists that there’s no hard feelings towards Warrilow, who he has known for over twenty years.

Speaking to Horsham’s official website www.hornetsreview.co.uk, Maggs said: "I signed Tommy for Crawley from Torquay when he was a 23 year old and then I brought him to Horsham as a player before he had a serious car crash that ended his career.

“Our relationship goes beyond that of manager and assistant. I look upon Tom as a member of my own family so it is a massive blow to see him leave but I've said many times that he will be a huge success as a manager and I see Tonbridge as a stepping stone for him.

“He certainly leaves with my blessing and, although it's come at a very bad time for us, life goes on and we will all make sure that we are fully focused on Saturday's game."

Horsham welcome Maidenhead United in the first round proper of the FA Cup (Sponsored by E.ON) on Saturday, whilst the Angels welcome Carshalton Athletic to the Betterview Longmead Stadium with vital league points at stake.

Visit club websites: 

www.tonbridgeangels.co.uk & www.tonbridgeafc.co.uk/forum

www.hornetsreview.co.uk