Matlock Town sack manager Adam Clayton
Matlock Town have sacked manager Adam Clayton following the 4-2 defeat to champions Redcar Athletic on Tuesday night.
Clayton, who initially took charge of the Gladiators on an interim basis a year ago before taking the job permanently last summer, has guided his side to third in the NPL Division One East with six games still to play.
But performances against the sides challenging at the top of the table have been disappointing in recent weeks, with Redcar having gone on to secure the title by some distance and Emley now sitting in the top play-off place, finishing in which would ensure a home play-off semi-final and potential final.
A club statement read: “The decision is based on recent results. Since the start of February, the club has played the five teams positioned closest in the table, losing all five. The club believes this form is not what is required to secure the best play-off position, nor is it ideal preparation for the end-of-season play-offs themselves.
“Further information regarding the vacant position will follow as soon as it is confirmed.”
Clayton had initially left the club by mutual consent in December before being reinstated a day later when a move to another club fell through.
Matlock go to eighth-placed Garforth Town on Saturday.