PICKERING Town have sacked manager Rudy Funk afterjust two matches of the Toolstation Northern Counties East premier division season.

Despite having played their trade in the Ebac Northern League last term, the Pikes were moved laterally into the NCEL ahead of the 2023/24 season, but have found trouble adjusting to unfamiliar opposition.

A promotion expert, Funk had led five teams to promotion out of that league throughout his managerial career, but has seen his Pickering side fail to pick up a point from their first two fixtures or even score a goal.

The Pikes followed up a 2-0 defeat to North Yorkshire rivals Knaresborough Town on the opening weekend with a 1-0 home loss to Doncaster-based Rossington Main at Mill Lane on Tuesday night, seeing them drop to 18th as one of six teams yet to score points this season.

Funk was first appointed to the role last September following the dismissal of Steve Roberts after a run of one win from the opening eight Northern League fixtures. 

He then led Pickering to a remarkable escape from relegation, the club earning 10 points from their final four matches to escape the drop on the final day of the season, having been at the bottom of the table just two weeks before its conclusion.

The news will likely come as a shock to fans, with Funk's plans for extending the club's reach within the local community seemingly garnering support.

Funk had also appeared to have completed his coaching staff last month, admitting to The Press that goalkeeping coach Graeme Roger was the "last piece of the puzzle."

Assistant manager, former Leeds United and England forward Tony Hackworth, has been placed in temporary charge for the next four weeks alongside club captain Wayne Brooksby and central defender Jamie Poole.

A statement from the club reads: "Following a club management meeing on Thursday, 3rd August 2023 the management team made a decision to terminate the agreement with our current manager.

"We would like to thank Rudy Funk for all his support over the last year and especially his hard work trying to raise the profile if the club within our community. We wish Rudy all the best for the future.

"We appreciate that this decision could cause concern to some, however we would like to reassure you that thus decision has been made with the best interests at heart for our football club.

"We have agreed to appoint Tony Hackworth as the club's senior coach for an interim period of four weeks, working alongside Jamie Poole and Wayne Brooksby as the club's senior players.

"The management team will review the progress over the next four weeks and continue to strive in creating a positive, enjoyable environment for its players, families, supporters, and everyone else involved on and off the field.

"Thank you everyone for your continued support."

Pickering begin their Emirates FA Cup journey in the Extra Preliminary Round at former Northern League foes Seaham Red Star tomorrow (3pm).