Bishop handed Southport job

A club with real ambition was how Andy Bishop described Southport after he agreed to take charge of the National League outfit on a permanent basis this week.
Andy BishopAndy Bishop
Andy Bishop

The ex-Wrexham, York City and Walsall striker was appointed as the new Sandgrounders boss after a highly impressive tenure as caretaker manager.

After the shock resignation of previous boss Dino Maamria last month, Bishop has guided Port to safety.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

They are currently in 15th spot in the table – nine points clear of the relegation zone with just this weekend’s final game of the season at home to Kidderminster Harriers to come.

Bishop has presided over three wins and three draws from his seven games in charge and Port chairman Charlie Clapham said his immediate success, style and demeanour was the reason for him being handed the job.

He had to fight off a very competitive field of external applicants, who were al l striving to be given the job.

Bishop said: “I am delighted to have been given this opportunity.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

“I told the chairman I wanted the job a couple of weeks ago and he has been great to work with.

“All the players have been very positive at a crucial time in the season. I can now build for next season and aim to take us forward.

“I’ve really enjoyed every aspect of management so far. My target is to improve on this season and let’s see where it takes us.

“I’ve played a lot at this level so I know what it takes

“Southport is a club with real potential and ambition.“

Clapham added: “We have all been impressed with the professional way that Andy has grasped the opportunity

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

“He is hungry and determined and I am looking to work with Andy over the long term.

“I want him to take us forward from a good base. Andy will be one of the youngest managers in senior professional football and I am very pleased that he has taken the opportunity.

“We are craving for stability and Andy can supply us with that and I firmly believe we will have success ahead.”

Meanwhile, Burscough’s promotion dreams ended this week when they were beaten by Spennymoor Town in the NPL First Division North play-off semi-final.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

The Linnets finished fifth in the table – just three points behind third-placed Northwich Victoria.

But the 1l-point gap between themselves and second-placed Spennymoor showed as they were beaten 3-1 despite Liam Caddick’s second-minute strike.