NON-LEAGUE FOOTBALL: Yaxley and Wisbech managers both quit

Two United Counties League Premier Division clubs lost their managers today (March 31).
Brett Whaley has quit as Wisbech manager.Brett Whaley has quit as Wisbech manager.
Brett Whaley has quit as Wisbech manager.

Wisbech Town boss Brett Whaley quit after admitting he found managing ‘The Fenmen’ difficult and Ian Benjamin left Yaxley FC stating ‘I didn’t feel all the committee were behind me’.

Benjamin, a former Posh and Northampton striker, will be replaced at the helm at In2itiive Park by Andy Furnell.

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Furnell, who was also a Peterborough United striker, had been Benjamin’s assistant.

Ian Benjamin has resigned as Yaxley FC boss.Ian Benjamin has resigned as Yaxley FC boss.
Ian Benjamin has resigned as Yaxley FC boss.

Benjamin said: “I resigned this morning as I felt one or two of the committee members were not behind me.

“I wanted to stay on for another season. Chairman Jeff Lenton said he wanted me to continue, but he also said he had to convince other people.

“That concerned me and if I don’t have everyone’s support, it is best for both parties that we part company now to give the club time to find a replacement for me and for me to seek an alternative management job.

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“In my opinion the preparation for next season should start now. You can’t wait until August as you won’t get the best available players.

Ian Benjamin has resigned as Yaxley FC boss.Ian Benjamin has resigned as Yaxley FC boss.
Ian Benjamin has resigned as Yaxley FC boss.

“I’m disappointed it has ended like this.”

Yaxley are 13th in the Premier Division ahead of their home derby with Deeping Rangers on Saturday (April 2).

Wisbech are 10th, but both clubs would have expected better.

Whaley was going to leave Fenland Park in the summer, but brought forward his departure after a disappointing home defeat by lowly Sileby Rangers on Easter Monday.

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Whaley said: “It’s the first time in my managerial career I haven’t enjoyed a season.

“I don’t regret taking the job as I’m a better manager for doing it.

“I have found the job difficult. I felt we had the squad to be successful, but it hasn’t worked out.

“I haven’t been able to find the answers for that and will take my share of the responsibilities, but the players must also accept they haven’t realised their potential.”

Wisbech, who will now be managed by Dick Creasey until the end of the season, host Harborough Town on Saturday.