Northern League: Mark Forrest steps down as Sunderland RCA manager
Sunderland RCA have confirmed manager Mark Forrest has stepped down from his role at the club.
Sunderland RCA have confirmed manager Mark Forrest has stepped down from his role just 48 hours before Saturday’s first qualifying round tie at Northern League Division Two rivals Ryton and Crawcrook Albion.
Just a week has passed since RCA suffered a 4-1 league defeat against Albion as goals from Charlie Grieveson, Louis Calvert, Joseph Groves-Forbes and Kyle Atkinson helped Nathan Beckham’s side to a comfortable win at the Oldhaulage Stadium. RCA suffered a further defeat in midweek as a Kyle Cockburn goal helped Alnwick Town claim all three points at Meadow Park - and that will now go down as the final game of Forrest’s reign after he stepped down on Thursday.
A club statement read: “Sunderland RCA can confirm that, following discussions this morning, we have reluctantly accepted the resignation of First Team Manager Mark Forrest.
“Mark has played a hugely important role in helping move the club forward during his time in charge, both on and off the field. His commitment, hard work and time given to the club have been greatly appreciated, and he leaves with our sincere thanks and respect. Football is never straightforward, and while we are disappointed to see Mark leave, we fully respect his decision and wish him all the very best for the future. He will always be welcome at Sunderland RCA.”
RCA have also confirmed Lewis Dodds will lead an interim management team consisting of Clayton Davis, Neal Atkinson and Paul Wilkinson and revealed they will be in charge for ‘a minimum of five games’ as they look to give stability and continuity in the aftermath of Forrest’s departure.
FA Vase first qualifying round fixtures
Friday: Newton Aycliffe v FC Hartlepool, Whickham v Newcastle University, Billingham Synthonia v Carlisle City Saturday: Knaresborough Town v Park View AFC, Kendal Town v Steeton, Billingham Town v Crook Town, Thackley v Yarm & Eaglescliffe, Boldon CA v Longridge Town, Harrogate Railway Athletic v Grangetown Boys Club, Ryton & Crawcrook Albion v Sunderland RCA, Campion v Prudhoe Youth Club, Northallerton Town v Durham United, Pickering Town v Alnwick Town, Thornaby v Blyth Town, Chester-le-Street Town v Redcar Town, Marske United v Seaham Red Star
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