RELEGATION threatened 1874 Northwich have parted company with their manager Damian Crossley.

The move follows 1874’s poor 4-0 home loss to fellow strugglers Trafford on Saturday.

Greens are on a run of 16 matches without a win.

They are rooted at the bottom of Northern Premier League West, 11 points from safety.

A club statement reads: “1874 Northwich wishes to announce that following very amicable discussions with Damian, it has been decided to release him from his duties.

“There is no doubt Damo has worked extremely hard for the club and has done so with a lot of energy and passion in what have been difficult circumstances.

“He leaves us with our greatest respect and sincere thanks. He is a thoroughly good guy who we have all enjoyed working with.

“The board will issue further communications in due course.”

Crossley came into the role in December with 1874 already in a vulnerable position, having only won one of their previous eight matches at the end of Wayne Goodison and Paul Bowyer's time in charge and a period under the caretaker management of experienced players Matt Wooley and Mark Jones.

Greens have lost eight and drawn three of Crossley's 11 matches at the helm since then.

Crossley arrived at Townfield with proven experience at NPL level, having previously been assistant manager at Buxton, Curzon Ashton and Colne and most recently first-team coach at Warrington Rylands.

At the time, chairman Stephen Richardson said: "It is a pleasure to welcome Damian to 1874 Northwich FC.

"We felt that his ambition to succeed, aligned with undoubted experience and understanding of the ethos and values of 1874 Northwich FC complimented his appointment."