Hampton & Richmond's vice chairman Michael Hollands ended Chick Botley's miserable return to the club last week by sacking him after just four months in charge.

Botley was relieved of his duties after 21 games in charge, during which time his side managed just one win and six draws.

The Beavers' relegation from the Ryman League Premier Division could be confirmed this weekend.

Hollands said: "Results were the same under Chick as they were when Ian McDonald was in charge earlier in the season.

"We are destined for relegation, barring miracles, so we thought it best to act now."

Assistant boss Brian Cottington has been appointed caretaker manager.

"I hoped Brian would take it on because he has impressed me," said Hollands. "If we think he's the man to take us further, we will make that decision, but it's an open book and we aren't ruling anything out."

Botley was not the only person to leave the Beveree this week and players Wayne Cort, Dave Cross, Richard Thompson, Luke Milner and Jesse Hall have all been shown the door.

"It was Chick's decision to release the players because they had not bothered turning up for games and missed training," said Hollands. "What's the points of paying these players if they can't be bothered to show any loyalty?"

Pressure

Club chairman Mervyn Cox has also, reluctantly, stepped down from his post because of pressure of work and family commitments.

However, he intends to carry on as main sponsor and will continue to help the Beavers financially.

One bright spot for Hampton this season has been the form of their U18 squad, who are currently top of their division.

Players Aaron Downes, Anthony Bremner and James McGrath have all now signed Ryman League terms and Hollands believes the club's youth is the way forward.

"They have done really well, always turn up to training and give 110 percent," he said.

"These are the types of players we want and now we'll get a chance to see if they are good enough for the first team."

Cottington begins his time in charge with a trip to Ford United tomorrow.

March 21, 2003 15:30