ROD Brown stepped down as boss of Stourport Swifts this week following Tuesday night’s 2-1 win at Heath Hayes in the Midland League Premier, writes Nick Pullen.

Brown confirmed he was considering a different venture into football and believed the time was right to part company with Swifts after two and half years in charge at Walshes Meadow.

Assistant boss Dave Connell will take charge of Swifts until a new manager is installed.

Brown claimed: “By leaving now, I’ve giving a new manager time to bring two or three players in before the deadline.

“With the addition of two or three new players, I see no reason why Swifts shouldn’t be challenging for a top six place.”

Brown admitted to making the decision following last Saturday’s 1-0 defeat at next-to-bottom Tipton Town.

Brown said: “I’m looking to take up another position in football. I was going to leave it until the end of the season, but the time seemed right now.

“We capitulated in the second half against Tipton and got muscled out of the game. It really upset me and I gave the players a real rocket afterwards.

“I spoke to chairman Chris Reynolds over the weekend and told the players just before the game at Heath Hayes of my decision. I gave my team talk and then told the players I’d decided to step aside. I said to them it might be the last time I ever manage a side and asked them for a good result.

“They gave me everything in a game we never looked like losing. It was all very emotional.”

Goals from Ashley Parsons-Smith and Ryan Woollacott made sure Swifts took the points at Heath Hayes.

Chairman Chris Reynolds added: “We wish Rod the very best for his new venture. There is no urgency to find a new manager as we’re not going anywhere this season, but we are actively looking and if anyone is interested in the position they should contact me on 07710-618462.”