Tough times but Pearce is buoyant ahead of new test

This article contains affiliate links. We may earn a small commission on items purchased through this article, but that does not affect our editorial judgement.

Daren Pearce admits it's been far from ideal but he's looking forward his next footballing challenge.

Pearce has been handed the first-team management role at Sidlesham following Gary Jefkin’s shock departure last month.

Having originally signed up as a coach along with his now assistant Andy Bell to work with Jefkins, the latter has since departed leaving the former Pagham player-boss in control.

Another blow for Pearce, has seen chairman Noel Jones decide to step down citing personal reasons in recent weeks.

That caps off a tough close season for Sids after they were relegated from Southern Combination League’s Division 1 after failing to meet ground grading rules - despite finishing 11th.

Having first joined as coach, it’s a shock for Pearce to now be boss but he wants to make it work with Sids.

He said: “It’s not been ideal but me and my assistant Andy Bell are going to give it a good go.

“I first came in as a coach but after Gary (Jefkins) decided to move on, the chairman asked me to be manager.

“Just last week, the chairman decided to step down so it’s been tough but I’m sure it will be a good challenge.”

Despite seeing several departures off-the-field, Pearce has been delighted with his players over the course of pre-season.

He believes Sids have an exciting mix of young and old heading into this season.

Pearce added: “The more experienced lads have been brilliant for me here. We’ve got some exciting young players, so it’s an exciting mix for the upcoming campaign.

“Hopefully those that stayed on will be able to help the younger guys here through in the early stages.”

Don’t miss out on all the latest breaking news where you live.

Here are four ways you can be sure you’ll be amongst the first to know what’s going on.

1 Make this website your homepage

2 Like our Facebook page at facebook.com/pages/Sport-Sussex

3 Follow us on Twitter @SportSussex

4 Register with us by clicking on ‘sign in’ (top right corner). You can then receive our daily newsletter AND add your point of view to stories that you read here.

And do share with your family and friends - so they don’t miss out!