THE search is set to begin for Malvern Town’s fourth manager in six months after Ray Pearce revealed he is stepping down from the post.

Following a “rollercoaster” 17-match spell in charge at the Langland Stadium, which included just two wins, the 30-year-old will take charge of his final league game tomorrow.

His rock bottom side wrap up their Baker Joiner Midland Alliance campaign when they entertain Heath Hayes (ko 3pm).

After this clash, Pearce will take charge of his last game with Town’s home Worcester Royal Infirmary Cup semi-final with Archdales on Thursday (7.30pm).

Despite announcing his impending departure due to family commitments, Pearce insists he will still help the club whenever they need him after being promoted from his previous role as reserve team manager earlier this season.

He followed Martin Stephens and Mike Pitt in the hot-seat during a tough term for the club.

Pearce and fellow joint-manager Mark Tipton took over from caretaker Pitt on March 3 and lost 14 out of their 17 matches in charge.

This record included a 5-0 home victory over Biddulph Victoria on Saturday, followed two days later by a 5-1 defeat fellow strugglers Willenhall Town.

Pearce said: “I am not going to do it next year.

“It has been a rollercoaster ride, but there have been more downs than ups.We are the only management team here this season with two wins and a draw to their names.

“It’s mixed emotions for me stepping down really. I have thoroughly enjoyed it, but not enjoyed losing every week.

“Maybe in three or four years time I can come back, when I have more experience. I’ve learned a lot from doing this. It’s such a hard league with a very good standard.

“I'm from Malvern, it’s my club. Hopefully the chance will come again.

“I was thrown in at the deep end, and when I joined there were only three players left in the squad. I had to reshape the squad from the beginning.

“The win we had over Biddulph was really, really good and it was the first time we’ve had everybody available.

“The whole squad was there and it showed. We played some really good football and passed the ball well. It showed what happens if everyone is available.”