Spenny sack boss Miller after chaotic loss

TOMMY Miller has parted company with Spennymoor Town less than 24 hours after Saturday’s 2-0 defeat at struggling Gloucester City.

The former Ipswich and Hartlepool midfielder was named as successor to club legend Jason Ainsley earlier this year but his reign came to an end following an eventful day at New Meadow Park.

The Moors made the long trip to Gloucestershire looking for a first win in eight National League North fixtures.

Their day got off to the worst possible start as key defender

James Curtis hobbled off and Oliver Hubert headed the hosts in front five minutes before half-time.

Matt McClure doubled the lead 20 minutes into the second-half but the Tigers forward sparked a melee moments later when he was alleged to have bitten Brad Abbott.

Both players were dismissed while Moors defender Carl Magnay and boss Miller also receiving their marching orders.

A statement released yesterday confirmed Miller and assistant Stuart Parnaby had departed and club stalwart Jason Ainsley will take over on an interim basis.

In the statement, Moors managing director Tony Wilson thanked Miller for his efforts.

However, he added: “It’s clear to everyone that the current form of the team falls short of the performance levels required to meet our strategic goals” and went on to say that “now is the time that a change is required”.

Meanwhile, Terry Mitchell’s first match in charge of Blyth Spartans ended with a 4-1 defeat at Fylde.

Nathan Buddle’s own goal was followed by a neat finish from Sam Osborne and a Nick Haughton brace.

A late JJ O’Donnell penalty was little consolation for Spartans, who will host Southport next weekend.