Non-league manager leaves club after heavy midweek defeat

Halesowen Town lost 5-1 at Racing Club Warwick in the Southern Central Premier on Tuesday night.

Manager Russ Penn has left Halesowen Town by mutual consent following Tuesday night’s 5-1 defeat at Racing Club Warwick.

Halesowen boss Russ Penn after their draw at Kettering. | Steve Evans

placeholder image — Halesowen boss Russ Penn after their draw at Kettering. | Steve Evans

The Yeltz were 4-0 down within 25 minutes and eventually lost 5-1 to continue a run of one win in six that has left them off the pace of the play-off places in the Southern Central Premier this season.

Former Kidderminster Harriers manager Penn has guided Halesowen into the play-offs in each of the last two seasons at The Grove, but has now left the club.

A statement from Halesowen read: “Keith McKenna and the football club would like to place on record their sincere thanks to Russ for his hard work, dedication and commitment throughout his time with us.

“We wish Russ all the very best for the future.

“A further update will follow in due course.”

Following the loss on Tuesday, Penn admitted the performance was ‘embarrassing’.

He said: “I want to say sorry to the fans, who have turned out in numbers - really apologise to them tonight - but I take full responsibility, as I always will.

“The players can hide behind me all they like, the club can hide behind me - I’m just gutted for the fans tonight.”

He added: “It’s one of those nights you want to forget very quickly - it’s not a night I want to have to my name, but unfortunately will go down as one of those.”