It's a disappointing day that we have agreed to part ways with boss Terry Spillane, says Thamesmead Town chairman Paul Bowden-Brown

THAMESMEAD TOWN begin the search for a new manager after parting company with Terry Spillane this afternoon.

Spillane was aiming to finish in the Ryman League Division One North play-offs this season but after Saturday’s 4-3 defeat at Maldon & Tiptree killed off the club’s play-off aspirations with the club in eighth-place in the table, having won 21, drawn 11 and losing 12 of their games.

When asked about his own future following the club’s 1-1 draw at Haringey Borough last Tuesday night, Spillane felt his job was safe but admitted at White Hart Lane that the result “put an end to their play-off hopes.”

Speaking post-match at Haringey, Spillane said: “He’s (chairman Paul Bowden-Brown) already asked me to stay on for next season. He’s made that clear.  I’m glad that he did because it took the pressure off, not pressure but you know what I mean.

“I sort of know where I stand. He made that clear six to eight weeks ago so I’ve got no worries about that. I’ve put that at the back of my mind.  I’ve got a heart the size of that football pitch and I want to get into the play-offs and I want to go up. If we don’t, I’ll go again next season.

“All I can say is we’ve given it a go, haven’t we? If you’re a Thamesmead supporter, this year we’ve given it a go!”

But Mr Bowden-Brown wielded the axe following talks this afternoon, as the former Maldon & Tiptree and Redbridge manager left Bayliss Avenue by mutual consent.

Mr Bowden-Brown said in a statement which was posted on www.thamesmeadtownfc.com: “I’d like to put on record by thanks Terry for all he’s done during his reign as manager of Thamesmead Town and I wish him well for the future on behalf of everyone at the club.

“We’ve had a discussion since our game at Maldon on Saturday and it’s a disappointing day that we have agreed to go our separate ways.  Terry will always be welcome.”

Spillane said he was disappointed to be leaving the club.

“I’ve enjoyed my time at Thamesmead Town and feel that we’ve achieved a lot in my time at the club,” said Spillane.

“I’d like to thank my back room staff (Tony Faulkner, Darran George and physio Carly Payne) for their held and support, as well as under 21 manager Gary Ryan, for producing a number of players who have featured for me.

“Dave Joy (the club secretary) who has been immense, as well as the old committee members and I’d also like to thank the chairman for his unconditional support given to me.

“Most importantly, I’d like to thank all of the players who have worn the clubs colours in my time and have given everything for me.

“Finally, a thank you to all the club’s supporters who have been magnificent and I’m sure they will be for the new manager whoever he may be.”

The club said that a further announcement will follow with regards to Spillane’s successor as the club complete their season with a trip to Tilbury on Saturday and hosting Brightlingsea Regent on 23 April.

Visit Thamesmead Town’s website: www.thamesmeadtownfc.com