HOLLAND FC joint-boss Glenn Cowen has stepped down for personal reasons - but believes the club can go from strength to strength after an impressive first season in the Thurlow Nunn League.

Cowen, who had been running the team with Rob Batten and coach Paul Abbott, wants to spend more time with his family and has been mulling over his decision since Christmas.

He confirmed he was leaving after Saturday’s final game of the division one season - a 3-2 success at Cornard United.

The former Gas Recreation boss admitted having mixed feelings because he loved his time with Holland.

However, after securing an impressive fifth-place finish, he feels sure they can achieve more success next season.

“It was a tough decision because I’ve thoroughly enjoyed my time at the club,” he said.

“But I have to do the right thing by my family and want to spend more time with my wife, Julie, and boys, Teddy and Robbie.

“Saturday is completely swallowed up by football because I also coach Teddy’s team, Stanway Rovers under-13s.

“I miss out on seeing my youngest train and it’s not fair. It doesn’t sit right with me that I’m missing out on family time.

“But it’s been great at Holland and I’m proud of what we’ve achieved this season, getting promoted to the Thurlow Nunn League, finishing fifth and also qualifying for next season’s FA Cup and FA Vase.

“That’s big for the club and will hopefully generate some extra income.

“It’s been a new challenge for me and I’ve loved every minute.

“We’ve had ups and downs and it’s tested me as a manager, but I like to think it’s brought the best out in me.”

Billy Wales, Steve Eaton and Joe Martin scored Holland’s goals on Saturday. It means they finished the season unbeaten in nine games, winning seven of them.

Ray Turner was also playing his final game for the club, before calling time on his illustrious non-league career.

“As a club, I think we can be really proud of the progress we’ve made,” added Cowen.

“We’ve finished the season strongly and had our run of form started a little earlier, we might have been able to sneak into one of the promotion spots.

“It’s a big achievement and there are exciting times ahead for Holland.

“I’d like to thank the players for their efforts and also Rob and Paul.

“They’re two top blokes, as is (chairman) Mark Sorrell.

“He gets involved in everything, from the under-sixes to the men’s teams, and the club are lucky to have him.”