Tonbridge Angels have announced that they have parted company with manager Steve McKimm with just one game left in the season.
A statement from the club issued on Tuesday evening reads:
“The Board of Tonbridge Angels has tonight taken the very difficult but unanimous decision to terminate the contract of manager Steve McKimm with immediate effect.
The manager was informed via a face to face meeting at which the reasoning behind the decision was explained.
It is the belief that McKimm and his team including Barry Moore have taken the club as far as they can and would not be able to continue to match the ambitions of the club going forward.
Appointed manager in May 2014 there have been some good times on the pitch with a semi-final play off appearance in 2016, promotion back to National League South via the unique Super Play Off set up in 2019, and reaching the FA Cup 1st Round proper in 2021 for the first time since 1973. There was a decent run in this season’s FA Trophy reaching the 5th Round for the first time in the club’s history.
Despite that, this season in the league has been difficult with just 10 league victories and with one game still to play a meagre 40 goals scored. Security from relegation was achieved just last Saturday.
Chairman, Dave Netherstreet said tonight: “Despite the significant increase in attendances for which we are incredibly grateful to our fantastic supporters, these have not been matched by overall performances on the pitch. Combined with the arrival of the 3G surface next season and the opportunities that brings, it is the genuine belief of the Board that a change in 1st team management is required to allow time for suitable preparations for the campaign ahead. We thank Steve and Barry for their significant contributions and wish them all the very best of luck and success in their future footballing careers.”
1st team vice-captain and Academy manager Tommy Parkinson will manage the side at the final game of the season away to St Albans City this Saturday, 7th May. A search for a new manager begins immediately to take the reins at The Halcyon Wealth Longmead Stadium.