Sweeney doing job one day at a time
Antony Sweeney has not ruled himself out of taking the Hartlepool United manager’s job on a permanent basis as the search for Craig Hignett’s replacement is under way.
Sweeney led Pools to their biggest win of the season so far down at Aldershot Town on Saturday afternoon as goals from Josh Hawkes, Gavan HolohanandNickeKabambahelping them to a 3-0 victory at the EBB Stadium.
The 36-year-old showed something of a magic touch as the two changes he made from Wednesday night’s defeat at StockportCountygotthegoals andHolohannettedaftercoming off the bench.
It was Sweeney’s first senior match as manager and he hasn’t ruled out the possibility of doing the job permanently.
“It’s not something I had eyes on or something I was expecting,” he admitted.
“Whenyougetaskedtostep up, with the affinity I’ve got with the football club, I would never say no.
“I spoke to Craig and Ged immediately and it shows the measureofthemtwowhenthe first thing they said to me was good luck and they were glad it’s me who has taken the reins temporarily.
“I’ll just do the job as long as I’m asked to do the job, whatever happens beyond that is beyond my control. I’ll take it day by day.
“I wouldn’t say I’ve enjoyed it. The timing was weird but I’ll do the job as long as needed and do the best I can for however long I’m here.”
Sweeney also spoke of his pride at taking charge of the side he made 444 appearances for between 2001 and 2014.
“It’s really hard not to get emotional, especially when the crowd are chanting your name,” the Pools legend said.