By Mark Carruthers
Northern Premier League East Division club Hebburn Town have confirmed they have sacked manager Kevin Bolam and assistant Mick Mulhern.
The duo took charge of the Hornets in the summer of 2019 and led the North East club to promotion into the Northern Premier League for the first time in their history.
More club history was made when Hebburn saw off the likes of Lower Breck, Plymouth Parkway and Corinthian to secure a first visit to Wembley in the 2020 FA Vase Final.
It was the Hornets that came out on top in an all-Northern League final against Consett as Olly Martin struck the decisive goal in a 3-2 win for his side.
Preparations for a maiden season in the new look Northern Premier League East Division were hampered by the departure of club captain Louis Storey to National League North side Gateshead and key striker Graeme Armstrong's decision to retire.
Worse was to follow in opening weeks of pre-season as experienced duo Darren Lough and Michael McKeown both succumbed to season-ending injuries.
Inconsistent form and further bad news on the injury front have left Hebburn battling in the lower half of the table for the majority of the campaign and Saturday's 3-1 defeat at Brighouse Town proved to be the final straw for the Hornets directors.
A statement released by the club on Tuesday night cited results and performances not meeting the club's expectations as the main drivers behind the decision.
It read: “Hebburn Town FC can confirm that a decision has been made by the club's board to relieve Kevin Bolam and Mick Mulhern of their duties as first-team manager and assistant manager with immediate effect.
“The club would like to place on record their gratitude to both Kevin and Mick for the hard work throughout their tenure that has seen them support the growth of the club both on and off the field, as well as leading the club to a famous and historic FA Vase final win at Wembley back in May 2021 – a moment that will be etched in the club's history.
“In addition to this, the success of promotion to the Pitching In Northern Premier League – the highest level the club has played at.
“Ultimately with results and performances this season not meeting the club's expectations the board feel a change is required to help move the club forward into the next phase of its strategic plan.
“Everyone at the club would like to wish both Kevin and Mick good health and success in their next venture.
“Details regarding the vacant managerial role will be shared in due course.
“No further comments will be made by the club at this time.”
Next up for Hebburn is Saturday's trip to Lincoln United and it remains to be seen who will be in charge for the game.
