Dale Belford to step down as manager of Stafford Rangers after Saturday

Rangers sit five points adrift from safety in the Northern One West after just one win in their last five league games.

Pressure increased on the Boro boss after a 2-1 defeat to Newcastle Town Last weekend, which was Stafford’s 13th league defeat of the season so far.

The club is facing a fight for survival, to avoid dropping into step five non-league football, after being relegated from step three and the Northern Premier League last season.

Belford stepped up into the managerial position during October after the departure of previous boss Dave Cooke, and was also assistant to the Rangers manager before that, Matt Hill.

Belford said: “I always believed that we could turn the corner, but that currently is not the case. I am proud to have represented the club, but I am acting in what I believe are the best interests of the football club in stepping down now to give someone else the chance and time to ensure that the club stays in this division. 

“I have given my all to the club whilst I have been here and am proud of our efforts and the work that both the players and backroom staff have put in. I cannot thank everyone enough for their support. It is with a heavy heart that I leave the Rangers, but I know that the decision is in the best interests of the club, myself, and my family.”

A question and answer session was held at the club on Wednesday night where directors at the club faced scrutiny from supporters.

Director of football Andy Fearn said he believes the Rangers have had a lot of “bad luck:” this season.

The club wished Belford the best, but said he will still take charge of the side this Saturday when they host Bootle.

The statement said: “Manager Dale Belford has decided to leave the club.

“Dale has been with Stafford Rangers for the last four years. He was assistant manager before being appointed to his current role four months ago.

“He has demonstrated a huge enthusiasm for the role and has done everything with a passion and determination to succeed that is admirable. We thank him hugely for all his efforts to turn around our fortunes and are incredibly sad to see him go.

“Dale has decided that he has currently taken the club as far as he can. Despite a gargantuan effort and commitment on his part the results and consistency on the field have not been able to be delivered.

“Dale will lead the team out for the final time when we play Bootle.

“In the interim period assistant manager Graham Deakin and the coaching staff will continue to train the squad and take charge of the next few games as we try and find a replacement.”