Deres make Manager Decision
Erith & Belvedere have parted company with manager Sam Groombridge after just 25 games in charge, following a mutual agreement with chairman Paul Springett.
The decision was taken on Monday morning in the aftermath of Saturday’s 4–1 home defeat to Punjab United, a result that proved to be the final straw in a challenging spell for the Deres.
Pre-season play-off ambitions have faded, with Erith & Belvedere now sitting six points outside the top five in the Southern Counties East Football League Premier Division. From their 24 league matches so far, the Deres have collected 32 points, recording nine wins, five draws and 10 defeats.
Springett paid tribute to Groombridge in a club statement, describing the decision as a difficult one both professionally and personally.
“The decision has not been taken lightly and comes after careful consideration during what has been a challenging period for the club on the pitch,” he said.
“Football decisions are never easy and this one has been particularly difficult on a personal level. Sam is not only a former team-mate but also a good friend, which has made the process all the more testing.”
Groombridge, who replaced the joint management team of Billy Hamlin and Jamie Phipps in early September, oversaw 25 matches in all competitions, winning 11, drawing three and losing 11.
Recent form ultimately counted against him, with the Deres managing just one win in their last seven League and Cup outings.
“While results this season have not met the standards we set for ourselves, Sam’s dedication to the role and his respect for the club have never been in question,” Springett added.
“On behalf of everyone at the club, I would like to place on record our sincere thanks to Sam for his hard work and contributions during his time at Erith & Belvedere. He leaves with our respect and I wish him nothing but success for the future.”
The club have yet to confirm who will take charge for Tuesday night’s home Premier Division fixture against fourth-placed Bearsted.