Black steps down after derby defeat

Grant Black has stood down as the manager of EVO-STIK League Ossett Town after his side's run of one win in nine outings.

Appointed to his first managerial role in February 2016 as the successor to Graham Nicholas, the former Matlock Town number two, pictured, resigned on Wednesday in the wake of his side's 1-0 defeat to derby rivals Ossett Albion on New Year's Day.

In a statement announcing his exit, former Harrogate Town manager Lee Ashforth and coach Steve Ridley were named as the club's caretaker managers for Saturday's visit of Colwyn Bay in EVO-STIK League North.

Officials at Ingfield also paid tribute to the work of former Harrogate Town, Buxton and Stalybridge Celtic star Black for guiding the Reds away from relegation and then to a play-off final in under 16 months at the helm.

The club said: “We would like to formally acknowledge and thank Grant for the significant achievements he has brought to the first team over the last two years – we have many fantastic moments from his tenure that will live in the memories of all associated with Ossett Town and others for many years to come."

Image courtesy of @OssettTownAFC/Twitter

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