The Pitching In Isthmian Football League

Hawks swap Standen for Saunders

5 Apr 2022 By Ian Townsend

Whitehawk make a managerial change

Whitehawk last night announced that they had replaced their manager, Ross Standen, with former Haywards Heath Town boss Shaun Saunders.

Chairman Andy Schofield explained to the club website:

“Saturday’s performance at Whistable made it clear to us that something had to change. We have tried to stick with Ross through what has been a very disappointing season, but despite some diabolical luck with injuries, we didn’t think we’d be struggling at the wrong end of the table. Ross and Tucky are club legends, so it is with genuine sadness that we have decided to part company with them.”

Standen, who had been in charge since November 2020, responded on social media:

'Just want to say thanks for the opportunity. Sorry results haven’t been as expected, but been worse season in 34 years in senior football with injuries etc, but it’s a results business so is what it is! Team will be fine this season, get behind them for rest of season. Also want to thank Tucky & codge who have been magnificent with their support to me this season.

Been at club for circa 25 years, so a big part of my life so gutted couldn’t bring the good times back! Thanks to fans for support in a very difficult season! All the best!'

Saunders was manager of Haywards Heath Town until a surprising departure in January- with his side in the top five and seven matches unbeaten.

He joined the club after an incredibly successful spell at Peacehaven and Telscombe, which saw the Magpies promoted from Step Five to Step Three and win the Sussex Senior Cup. Whilst at Heath he won promotion from SCFL Division One at his first attempt, then topped that by winning the Premier Division, only to see his side docked points and miss out on promotion. Undeterred he then steered them to the title once more, and in their first Isthmian season took them all the way to the South East Playoff Semi-Finals.

Where next?

Vita Risk Solutions Manager of the Month Awards: March 2022 It’s Manager of the Month time again, courtesy of Vita Risk Solutions- and here are our victorious managers from March- who are victorious due to being victorious!