BOSSES EXITS ROCK ROBINS

JAMIE McClurg and Carl Withers say they are mighty proud to have achieved ‘something special’ at Bracknell Town.

The popular pair surprisingly stepped down as joint bosses after a record 18-month reign at the Berkshire club.

Joining from neighbouring Binfield last summer, McClurg and Withers steered the Robins to the first round of the FA Cup two years running, the last 16 of the FA Trophy and a highest ever league finish, as well as winning the Berks & Bucks Senior Cup.

But after McClurg was involved in a serious car accident last month, personal pressures told on the pair, prompting them to end their tenure with the club just outall side the Southern League Premier South play-off places.

“From an easy decision 18 months ago to take the role as manager of Bracknell Town to a very difficult one to step away to get myself back to where I need to be,” McClurg said.

“I’d like to thank every player for their unbelievable efforts and commitment to myself, Carl, Lee [Riddell] and the rest of the management team and what an honour to get to know these amazing lads off their pitch.

“The environment, memories and moments we all had a part in creating is something special and I;m sure will stay with us all.

“To reach the first round back to back in thre FA Cup, the last 16 of the FA Trophy, win the Berks & Bucks and give the club its highest finish in league history has been an honour and it’s been one hell of a journey. We couldn’t have done it without the help of [owner] Kayne [Steinborn-Busse], all the staff and every single one of the Robins’ faithful.”

McClurg’s decision to step down to focus on his recovery prompted Withers to re-evaluate his position where the co-boss decided the pressures of taking on the role alone was not something he could pursue.

“Well, that’s a wrap - and what a journey it’s been,” Withers added.

“To achieve what we did together and the memories we shared along the way will stick with me forever.

“To reach the FA Cup first round once is no mean feat but to do it back-to-back is something I am immensely proud of amongst the many other records we broke along the way.”

Academy manager Jordan Ive has taken over first-team caretaker duties while the club honoured the work of the departing pair.

“Their leadership and passion have been instrumental in the club’s growth and success,” the Robins said in a statement.

“The club extends its best wishes to James for a speedy recovery and wishes both James and Carl continued success in their future endeavours.”