AT the weekend Bridgwater United relieved long-serving manager Dave Pearse from his duties at the club, to which supporters were left confused.

On Monday (November 21) evening, the club provided the reasons as to why it was time for a change.

In a statement, the club said: "The club announces that Dave Pearse the club manager has departed from Bridgwater United. After 7 years as Player Manager/ Manager the club has not achieved promotion.

"This season results so far have been good but not great. The 3 losses costing the club 9 points and over £10k in costs are not acceptable to our new owner Ian Davis."

Despite those three losses, Bridgwater United still sit in second place in the league and are still competing in the FA Vase as well as other local cup competitions.

For the spectators, this season has been an entertaining one so far, with Bridgwater the highest scoring side in the league.

However, the statement went on to say that the owner Davis wants to see the club promoted and that is why the decision was made.

Bridgwater Mercury: Owner Ian Davis (right) believes it was time for a change.Owner Ian Davis (right) believes it was time for a change. (Image: Craig Blake)

"Ian has made this decision with a heavy heart but feels it’s very necessary that new blood is introduced to the club to give it the push it currently needs.

"Ian has invested a considerable amount to get the club clear of debt and has improved the grounds and the facilities and only wants what’s best for the club. It’s all about the club not any one person."

Shortly after this statement, the club announced that Andy Lewellyn would take charge as manager for the remainder of the season.

The former Bristol City player has been at Bridgwater as an assistant manager for the bulk of the campaign already.

"The club announces the appointment of Andy Llewellyn from assistant manager to Manager," the club announced.

"Andy brings a wealth of football league experience having made over 300 career appearances for Bristol City as well as short spells at Exeter City and Hereford United.

"Andy’s job will be to pull back the 9 point loses from our trips down south and get us back on the promotion path."

And Chairman Ian Davis added: “It’s time for some new blood and I believe Andy is the right person for the job.”