It’s sad Steve had to leave but things were just not right
IT was a disappointing week for Southport as manager Steve Burr departed following a string of poor results.
Burr took over in September, replacing Andy Bishop, but was given just four months at the helm after he was sacked following Southport’s 3-1 defeat against Bromley on Saturday.
The Sandgrounders have battled in the depths of the relegation area all season but Burr led them to safety – though just a point above the drop zone.
He was in charge for 27 games – winning nine, drawing six and losing 12 – but he oversaw Southport’s run to the first round of the FA Cup competition before they were knocked out by Fleetwood Town in extra-time of the replay.
Director of football Liam Watson has taken interim charge after spending eight years as manager of the club during two spells.
It was a controversial decision to sack Burr but after three successive defeats, Watson admitted it was a choice the board made in the best interests of the club.
“As I said it’s not something we wanted to happen. It’s a sad day, it always is when someone leaves the football club,” said Watson.
“I was on the panel when Steve [Burr] was appointed so I’m massively disappointed it hasn’t worked out but there’s different reasons as always why someone leaves a club.
“All we can do is move on, get the lads focused and out of a bad run and we can only do that on the pitch.
“Things weren’t right. That discussion was held in the board meeting. I’m not going to be critical of Steve in any shape or form.
“That decision was made and that should be kept private and confidential and all we can do is talk about the future.
The club s t a t e m e nt added: “Following a disappointing series of results the Board have taken the decision in the best interests of Southport Football Club to move forward in a different direction.” “With 19 players recruited during Steve Burr’s tenure and significant financial backing to strengthen the squad, the performances and results recently have not shown signs that confirm the club can get to a position in the league that provides the security as required.” Southport bounced back from a difficult weekend with a 3-1 victory over Widnes in the quarter-final of the Liverpool Senior cup on Monday evening.
It was Watson’s first game in charge and he was pleased with how his side responded to Saturday’s disappointment.
The interim manager also admitted he will be looking to strengthen the squad wherever possible and he believes Southport are in need of some experience.
“We got a result and we can’t ask much more from them on a day of upheaval. We have 16 massive games left and we’re trying to do the best we can. We’re itching to get the right results to get us in a place of safety.
“It’s clear to me that we’re crying out for experience. It’s not something we haven’t been trying to address anyway and Steve’s been part of that.
“Trying to get experienced people at this time of the year is always going to be difficult. All I can do is work as hard as I can and speak to as many people as I can. And see what we unearth.
“Josh Thompson and Jordan Lussey’s injuries have been devastating but there’s no point looking back. We need to look forward and be positive.
“Anything I can do in my remit, I will do. I want what’s right for Southport – even if I’m here for a day, a week or a month.
Watson also had some positive words about Keith Briggs who will remain in his role as assistant manager, as well as the supporters who have stuck with Southport all season.
“Keith [Briggs] has done really well since he’s been here. He’s a good coach and a likeable person. He’s got experience. He knows the players – probably better than I do. That’s beneficial for the club.”
“We want to give the fans something to cheer about. We all want to be in the right direction.
“They have stuck behind me and it’s easy to stick behind someone when you’re flying high at the top of the league but these guys have stuck behind me going into a relegation battle.
“They kept me in the job in 2006 and kept the club in the league. That was how much of a bearing they have and I don’t doubt we’ll have that all season.”
Southport return to action on Saturday when they take on Gateshead in the latest National League fixture.