‘To say the season’s been successful is an understatement’ – Chichester City coach’s pride at end of toughest season
Coach Darin Killpartrick reflected on an upbeat end to Chichester City’s season – and said their mid-table finish was a major success story.
City believe they have the joint lowest budget in the Isthmian Premier but they have stayed well clear of the relegation battle all season to finish 12th.
And when you add in the tragedy that occurred in September – when striker Billy Vigar died in hospital five days after a freak collision with a perimeter wall in their game at Wingate & Finchley – the achievement is all the more remarkable.
After rounding off their campaign with a 2-2 draw at Brentwood, who ended fifth to reach the play-offs, proud Killpartrick said: “To say the season’s been successful is an understatement.
“In all my coaching career I think this is one of the biggest achievements I’ve been part of – forget FA Trophy and FA Cup runs and promotions.
“To come through a 42-game season in a league with the strength of opposition we have faced is unbelievable.
“We have a small budget – tiny compared to many – and a small squad but we have stuck together and worked so hard to keep competing.
“The backroom team and the club’s volunteers have been a huge part of it along with the players. I am so proud of everyone over what we have achieved this season.”
Killpartrick said he did not need to name everyone – “They know who they are”, he said – but did want to mention Mia Pearson and Kira Brown from the physio staff who he said had been through a lot and had shown huge commitment to the cause.
One hope for the close season is that sponsors or investors come forward to boost City’s finances. Killpartrick added: “We desperately need help to survive in this league.”