Missing out on the play-offs for the second year has cost Montrose manager Stuart Garden his job.
The Links Park boss has parted company by “mutual consent” with the League Two club. The last result for Garden was a 4-0 defeat at champions-elect Peterhead on Saturday.
That had been preceded by a 3-0 home loss to Elgin City. Prior to that Montrose were still in play-off contention however, they currently sit third-bottom of the table, nine points adrift of fourth.
Only a late slump last season cost them a play-off spot in Garden’s first season in charge, after stepping up from assistant manager when Ray Farningham left for Dundee.
The two stand-out results were home and away draws with Rangers. The Montrose board have clearly set the bar higher than mid-table, which is where the club are likely to finish in a few weeks.
Chairman Derek Sim said in a statement last night: “Montrose Football Club today announced manager Stuart Garden had left the club by mutual consent following the club’s failure to reach the SPFL League two play-offs.
“The club will be advertising the post for a manager or player/manager however, in the interim George Shields, assistant manager, and John McCafferty, goalkeeping coach, will be responsible for coaching and team selection duties.
“The club wishes to place on record our thanks to Stuart for his efforts during the past two years.”
Garden was unavailable for comment.