Lovell resigns as Hastings manager

The former Welsh international stepped down immediately after Hastings' thrilling 4-3 defeat at home to bottom-of-the-table Newport IoW on Saturday.

Lovell decided to quit partly because he had had enough of criticism being levelled at his players by certain parties involved with the Ryman Division One club.

"I've got a lot of respect for the people within the club but there are certain people who have not been with me and those people know who they are. There are certain people in the club who have not backed me.

"I've got nothing against Dave Walters (chairman), he's been magnificent but I've done this because I love Hastings United Football Club. I'd rather let someone else come in. I think I need a new challenge."

Lovell took over in June 2003 and due to a reduction in the playing budget following relegation from the Dr Martens Premier virtually had to build a team from scratch.

As expected, Hastings struggled before finishing 18th in the Dr Martens Eastern - well clear of the relegation places.

Lovell was quietly confident of his team enjoying a good season in 2004/05 and when he led his team to second place it seemed as though Hastings would be challenging for promotion, but a run of one win in eight games, culminating in the defeat against Newport IoW, triggered his decision to resign.

Lovell's assistant Vince Moorton will take charge of the team for the trip to Dulwich Hamlet on Tuesday November 23.

Hastings had Sean Ray and goalkeeper Danny Knowles sent-off in the loss to the Islanders at the weekend. The home side were 3-1 down at the time but a stunning fightback saw them draw level with goals from Chris Honey and Andy Ducille before a late winner meant the visitors took all three points. Ray had earlier been on target before being dismissed for dissent.