Upbeat Clifton keen to continue as Holbeach United boss and insists that his job “starts now”

Deeping Rangers 3 Holbeach United 0

Defiant Danny Clifton insists that his job as Holbeach United manager essentially “starts now” as his side completed their season with a 3-0 defeat at Deeping Rangers on Easter Monday.

Goals from Luke Hunnings (31), Sam Wilson (77) and Jones De Sousa (82) sank the Tigers on Monday as they completed an entire season without a win in the Uhlsport UCL Premier Division North.

Indeed, the beating at The Haydon Whitham Stadium made it 30 losses from 34 games for the relegated Tigers, who drew the other four.

Clifton, the third manager Holbeach used during the season, is adamant that he wants to carry on in the job despite being aware of rumours that he may be replaced.

Such a decision could be considered harsh on the boss, who was forced to play teenagers for much of the second half of the season following a mass player exodus before he arrived at Carter’s Park.

“I’ve got big plans for next season,” said the Tigers boss “Essentially, the job starts now as far as I’m concerned.

“I’ve got everything planned and have agreed with others to come in and join me. From what I’ve heard, we’re 100 per cent going to be relegated and there won’t be any technicalities saving us, which is right as far as I’m concerned.

“It’s all about what division we go into now and how we rebuild the club and move forward.

“I’m aware of rumours that a former manager might replace me, but I’ve not been told I’m not wanted here anymore.

“Having endured a tough few months, I’m fully committed to starting afresh and 100 per cent hope to stay in the job.

“If I’m not wanted, well that’s football, isn’t it?”

Clifton was pleased with how his Tigers performed at Deeping, despite having six regulars missing.

They hit the post before Hunnings scored the opener, which was bizarrely assisted by the referee after he gave Deeping a uncontested drop ball by the corner flag.

Tigers: Blake, Harris, Gilbert, Nuttell, Thomas, Wilson, Wirkowski, Catt, Carter, C Dalliday, O Dalliday. Subs used: Chaudhari, Warrington.

Attendance: 135.