Brighouse Town part ways with Vill Powell after eight years

It was his first managerial role, and he established the club as a strong presence in the eighth tier of English football.

Powell guided the club to a play-off final victory in the 2018-19 season, but they were denied promotion to the NPL Premier Division due to a league restructure meaning they missed out on going up on a points-per-game basis.

He also led them to the West Riding County Cup final in the 2021-22 season ,where they lost 3-1 to Liversedge.

Brighouse are struggling this season though, and are only five points clear of the NPL East Division relegation zone with five games remaining.

Town have therefore decided to act, and in a club statement last night, they wrote: “It is with a heavy heart that Brighouse Town and manager Vill Powell have agreed to part ways.

“This decision was taken with the best interest of the club at heart and been agreed it’s the best course of action for both parties.

“After eight years with challenges and successes and what has resulted in a difficult season, both parties feel it’s time for a change and a new voice.

“This was Vill’s first managerial role and eight years in is a real achievement and he should be extremely proud of what he has achieved.

“We would also like to thank Louis Axcell and Leon Wainman for their efforts at the club as they depart the club.”

They added: “Vill’s commitment to the whole club from day one cannot be questioned and his contributions over the last eight years both on and off the field cannot be questioned.

“We all wish Vill all the very best in his next footballing endeavours where we are certain he will have great success.”

Brighouse Town celebrate what should have been a deserved promotion in 2019. (Image: @brighousetownfc.)

Powell said: “In my time at Brighouse, we have had some great memories and some lifelong friendships have been made.

“I would like to go on record to thank Charlie Tolley supporting me throughout the eight years and Chris Lister who has continued that support.

“I’d also like to thank everyone at the football club who have helped in moving the club forward.

“I would also like to thank my staff during my time, Nat, Louis, Leon and Stacy, as well as all the players.

“All good things come to an end, and I have enjoyed and learned so much at my time at Brighouse, stuff that I can take forward with me.

“But it is now someone else’s turn at Brighouse and I wish them all the best.”

And Brighouse have decided who's turn it is, for now at least.

They have announced this evening that Paul Quinn and his assistant Steve Waide have agreed to take charge of the team for the remaining fixtures to the end of the season.

Quinn needs no introduction to the club, as he was the man who steered Brig out of the Northern Counties East League to promotion into the Northern Premier League.

He has since had extensive managerial experience at this level and within the professional ranks.

Waide is a UEFA A Licence coach and has worked with Quinn for several years, so this interim duo is a proven partnership in Brig’s time of need.

In a club statement about the appointment of Quinn and Waide, Brighouse said: “They will bring a fresh and focused attitude to the remaining few weeks of the season and I am sure will be given a very warm welcome.”