Boss Marcus Ebdon and number two Danny Hussey left their roles at Spalding United following Saturday’s final game of the Evo-Stik NPL Division One South season.
The Tulips looked set to beat Leek Town 1-0 at the Sir Halley Stewart Playing Field after Nathan Stainfield’s 65th-minute header, but Chris Baker’s last-gasp leveller denied them.
However, the big story came after the final whistle as Ebdon and Hussey confirmed it would be their last game in charge of Spalding.
It marks the end of a four-year stay at the Sir Halley for the duo, who worked under former boss Pat Rayment before replacing him in the top job last November.
“It was our choice,” said Ebdon. “A couple of weeks ago Danny told me he’d be struggling to stay because of his job.
“Also, the amount of travelling I have to do and the young family that I have was making things difficult for me.
“We came to the conclusion that you need to give this job 110 per cent – and if you can’t give it your absolute everything, you need to walk away.
“That’s what Danny and I have decided to do.
“I’ve had a great four years here, it’s a great club with great people. I’ll certainly miss all of them.
“It’s time for a new era here and it’s up to the club decide where they want to go from here.
“From my point of view, I won’t be looking to get back into management any time soon.”
Spalding United have released the following statement on the duo’s departure: “After conversations with the club, Marcus and Danny have decided to step down from the management team, due to work and family commitments.
“They both felt they could not give the club the appropriate time required for Spalding United to remain a successful step four club.
“The club wishes to make clear that Marcus and Danny leave us on good terms and will always remain a respected and significant duo at Spalding United.
“Their legacy at The Sir Halley Stewart Playing Field has long been guaranteed and they will always be warmly welcomed back.
“The club’s focus is now on ensuring our talented squad reaches its potential with local youth merging through. There will be no further comment until a new appointment is made.”
Spalding finish the season in 12th place. A report from the Leek game will follow – along with the rest of Saturday’s football.
Holbeach United lost 2-1 at home to Newport Pagnell, while Moulton Harrox clinched the PDFL Premier Division title with a 5-1 win at Stilton United.
