Saints' 15-0 defeat at derby rivals is final straw for Ray

Saints, who have yet to win in Midland Division One this season, started the match with ten players and were forced to play the second half with just eight after picking up two injuries.

Chairman Charles Hill said: “Clearly the season has not gone the way we had hoped and despite all of Ian’s hard work, and that of his staff, the cumulative effect of being continually let down by players combined with increasing pressures of work and bringing up his young family, meant that Ian had told me ten days ago of his intention to resign after the forthcoming Copsewood game.

“However, being let down again at Racing Club, resulting in the team having to play the second half with only eight players, with the inevitable outcome as far as the result was concerned, he felt it would be best to step down immediately.

“I am grateful to Ian for his efforts as manager and know that he can still play a role in the wider club as we look to deliver our vision for football in Southam in the future.”

Player-coach Alex Baird, who is currently recovering from a serious knee injury, has been put in temporary charge for Saints’ next match, away at Coventry Copsewood on Monday.