Wilkinson falls on his sword

31 Aug 2016 By David Watters

Kidlington have started the hunt to replace Martin Wilkinson after he stood down at the EVO-STIK League Southern's Greens.

Wilkinson, pictured, left Yarnton Road on Tuesday following his side's heavy 5-0 home defeat at the hands of Beaconsfield SYCOB on Bank Holiday Monday.

Wilkinson resigned after leading the Greens to the Hellenic League Premier title last season to win promotion to the EVO-STIK League Southern's Central Division One.

In a statement confirming his departure, Kidlington`s press officer Simon Dickens said: "Martin`s management team and squad have been contacted and a committee meeting will convene as soon as possible.

"Kidlington are indebted to Wilky`s dedication during his time with us, during which he achieved the club's long term objective to compete at Step 4, Southern League football.”

Former Bracknell Town number two Wilkinson left with Kiddy second from bottom having collected two points from their opening six games.

Wilkinson, who has also coached at Raith Rovers, Forfar Athletic and Swindon Town's academy, had also seen his side suffer an early exit from the Emirates FA Cup after losing to North Greenford United in the preliminary round.

Follow the EVO-STIK League Southern on Twitter at @SouthernLeague1

Where next?

Number two takes temporary charge Kidlington have named Jermaine McSporran as their caretaker manager after Martin Wilkinson's departure from the EVO-STIK League Southern's Greens.

Bank Holiday Monday's Premier Division review Chippenham Town maintained their unbeaten start to the new EVO-STIK League Southern Premier Division season on Bank Holiday Monday with a 4-1 win against bottom-markers Cirencester Town, writes Pitchero's Steve Whitney.