Keswick will have a new manager for tomorrow’s Cumberland County League clash with leaders and title favourites Unisun Athletic.
After three years in charge John Phillips has stood down and has been replaced by Matty Thomson.
It’s been a disappointing and frustrating campaign for Phillips who took on the role three years ago but this season he has been plagued by a shortage of players for various reasons.
The final straw came on Saturday when they lost 5-1 at bottom side Cleator Moor Celtic reserves who were winning for the first time after 12 successive defeats.
A former goalkeeper, whose career was ended by injury, Phillips had followed Thomson into the Keswick nets and now Matty’s son Charlie is the first choice keeper.
It seems to be a straight fight now between Keswick and Wigton Harriers as to who will be relegated alongside Cleator Moor Celtic reserves.
Keswick are two points behind draw specialists Wigton who haven’t won a game but have drawn eight times. However the Lakes side do have two games in hand of the Harriers.
Phillips, who made his first team debut aged 16 against Wetheriggs on the old Walker Park pitch, has many fond memories of his time as player and manager.
He said: “I would just like to say a massive thank you to all the lads that I’ve played with over the years. It’s been a pleasure.
“To the lads who have played under my management it’s been a fantastic time and I wish them all the best for the rest of the season and the seasons to come.
“Also best wishes to Matty in taking over the team.”
While Keswick will be hoping to start an end-of-season revival tomorrow against Unisun Athletic, Wigton face a tough test at Mirehouse.
Champions Maryport Athletic are still hanging in there but need slips from Unisun to retain their crown. They travel to Cockermouth tomorrow.
The other Premier Division games are: Aspatria v Whitehaven Miners Social and Cleator Moor Celtic reserves v Workington Juniors.
Division One – Cockermouth reserves v Windscale reserves; Whitehaven Miners Development v Northbank.
Whitehaven Cup – Unisun Development v Carlisle City Development; Silloth v Dearham United; Whitehaven reserves v Bransty Rangers.
