Two South Wiltshire football clubs see managers leave

Bemerton Heath Harlequins and Downton brought in new bosses

Author: Faye TryhornPublished 19th Aug 2024

Two of South Wiltshire football teams have changed manager this weekend.

Bemerton Heath Harlequins have parted company with manager James Ellis after just five weeks.

The Southern League Division 1 side say its NOT related to recent results - they've only won once in five competitive games so far this season.

The latest match saw Bemmy get knocked out of the FA Cup by Laverstock and Ford.

Danny Young has been appointed interim manager.

All change at the Nest

Downton have also confirmed the departure of their boss Richard Morse.

In a statement on social media, the club's said:

"We would like to share the news that we have parted company with first team manager Richard Morse. Everyone at Downton Football Club is extremely appreciative of the role Richard has played in leading our first team and securing promotion back to the Wessex Premier League.

"We wish Richard all the very best for the future and he will always be warmly welcomed back at The Nest."

Experienced Wessex and Southern League manager Shaun Hale has replaced him with immediate effect.

FA Cup draw

The draw for the first qualifying round of the FA Cup has also been made today (Monday 19th August).

Laverstock and Ford were in the hat after their impressive win over Bemerton Heath Harlequins.

The Bulldogs will face Bishops Cleeve away from home on the weekend of Saturday 31st August.

Their opponents play in the Southern League Division One - one step higher than Lavvy in the football pyramid.

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