Clitheroe part ways with manager

The decision comes in the wake of the Blues' 3-3 draw at Chasetown on Saturday.

In that match, they recovered from 3-0 down at half-time to rescue a point - but it was not enough to stop Dempsey becoming the fourth managerial departure in the Pitching In NPL West Division this season.

The decision to part ways with Dempsey may come as a surprise to some. Since the former Widnes boss took charge of Clitheroe back in March, no manager has collected more points in the NPL West Division than Dempsey's 45.

He leaves the club fourth in the league table, having guided them to the play-off semi-finals during the 2022/23 campaign.

Richie Baker and Lee Pugh will take control of the team on an interim basis as Clitheroe search for Dempsey's permanent successor.

A club statement read: "Following yesterday’s game at Chasetown, the club chairman, David Frost, spoke with the manager, David Dempsey.

"Given concerns about a number of factors this season, including hitting pre-arranged targets, he relieved the manager of his duties.

"The club thanks David Dempsey for his achievements last season and wishes him every good fortune going forward."

Photo credit: Widnes FC