First team coach leaves Hastings

United player-manager Sean Ray told www.hastingsunitedfc.co.uk: “Although we have had a great run in the FA Cup, which was a wonderful achievement, our league form has been poor.

“Whilst this has not been down to Gary, I feel that we need some fresh ideas and a change in this important area. We have won only three league games all season and are in a relegation battle and, although the players must shoulder some of the blame, we need something different on the training pitch.

“I would personally like to thank Gary for his hard work and efforts though. This was a very difficult decision and I wish him well in the future.

“Hugo has been working at Herne Bay recently and, prior to that, he was first team manager at Horsham. I have worked with Hugo before, when he was assistant manager during my playing days at Ashford Town.

“I have a lot of time for him and feel that this will be a good appointment for our club. Hugo is an ‘A’ licence coach, who also has his own scouting network and works in his own coaching academy. He will bring a professional approach and lots of enthusiasm to the club and has some good ideas regarding training and our set-up.”

In other news, Hastings United under-16s will take on Turkish side Sekaspor under-16s at The Polegrove, home of Bexhill United FC, tonight (Monday) from 7.45pm.

The Turks are spending a week in England, during which they also have games arranged against Maidstone United, Eastbourne Borough and Premier League giants Norwich City.