Bobby Beckwith has his say after being sacked as Jags manager after just four games
Bobby Beckwith said that he never expected to be sacked after just four games in the Highland League and had been given assurance he would get time.
Strathspey Thistle owner and chief executive Grant McKellar announced the shock decision last night on social media.
Beckwith said he was confident that he and assistant Ronnie Sharp were on the right track after a summer of seismic change at Grantown’s Seafield Park.
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The Jags have lost their first four games in a tough start to the season in which they have played Huntly away, Brora at home, Wick Academy away and Forres Mechanics at home.
But Beckwith said a lot had been achieved in a short space of time since arriving through the doors in the spring.
“I am very disappointed with the decision that has been made,” he said.
“I never expected it four games and 20 days in with a squad put together by directors of football just eight weeks before the start of the season.
“Several of the players have never played Highland League football before.
“Three months of hard work has been put in by the management and players to get a team in place.
“We have had to start the season with five players out with long term injuries and our fist four fixtures were tough to say the least.
“I think what we have achieved over a short period of time in charge has been amazing.
“I believe we were on the right track given more time.
“The way it has been dealt with has not been the best. We were given promises and reassurances that we would be given time but that has not happened nor a thank you from the club for the efforts put in.
“I would like to thank Ronnie Sharp for his support and helping me to try and bring a professional attitude to the club.
“I also wish the players all the best for the rest of the season and thank them for all their efforts.
“With players back this weekend I would be expecting a good result against Devonvale on Saturday
“I wish the club all the best going forward.”
Strathspey Thistle have been contacted for comment.
There are reports that the club already has a replacement lined up but nothing that has been officially confirmed.
The club did comfirm in the annoucement that Beckwith and Sharp had been shown the door that the process had started to fill the vacancy.
The Jags only avoided a relegation play-off at the end of last season because the winners of the North Region Juniors, Midlands League and North Caledonian League did not have the appropriate SFA licence.
They also finished bottom the season before.
