Hessey to carry on as Mariners boss

[FF News]

Sean Hessey has taken the helm at Marine on a permanent basis after guiding the relegation battlers to the brink of safety in the Evo-Stik Northern Premier League's top flight.

After suffering just one defeat in 10 games as caretaker since replacing former manager Carl Macauley in February, the 36-year-old,  was confirmed on Wednesday as the new Mariners boss following Tuesday night's 1-1 draw with Curzon Ashton at the Arriva Stadium.

The Mariners were 11 points adrift of safety when the Liverpool-based defender took over towards the end of February but are now just three points from survival with two games to go after winning five and drawing four of their games under the guidance of the UEFA B licensed coach.

Marine's officials are delighted with the transformation of their fortunes that has given them hope of holding onto a proud record of never being relegated.

Marine chairman Paul Leary said: “The results and performances have dramatically improved during the six weeks that Sean has been in charge. When we appointed Sean as caretaker manager we asked him to bring some pride and respectability back into our team’s performances and he has certainly done that.

"The players have responded magnificently to the challenge and I applaud them all for what they have done. Collectively they have proved beyond doubt that they are really good players and the results sequence over the last ten games proves it.

"I congratulate Sean on his appointment and I look forward to him bringing success to our football club in the years ahead."

The Mariners face already relegated Belper Town at home this weekend followed by Blyth Spartans away and Leary has no doubts the club's players are up for the challenge under their newly appointed manager.

He added: “The next two games continues with our bravest of efforts to stay up and I know that the players and Sean’s staff are up for the battle.

"The fans response to the players in recent weeks has been superb and the final two games presents an opportunity for everyone connected with Marine to get together to win the challenge of all challenges in the final week of the season.”

Former Liverpool, Leeds United, Wigan Athletic, Huddersfield Town, Kilmarnock, Blackpool, Chester City, Macclesfield Town, Accrington Stanley, Barrow and Prestatyn Town defender Hessey said: “I am honoured and privileged to be given this opportunity to manage Marine. I am proud of our record since I stepped in and the reaction from all the players has been fantastic.

"The support that myself, my staff and the players have received from the board and supporters has been absolutely brilliant. We will always strive to give our best.”

Source: www.evostikleague.co.uk

Source