HOLLAND FC have parted company with joint-boss Jon Willis.

The news came after a 1-0 defeat at Halstead Town on Tuesday night.

It was their fifth straight defeat and a setback that left them 16th in the Thurlow Nunn League first division table, heading into Saturday's match at Team Bury.

Joint-boss Rob Batten will take charge of the team at the weekend, assisted by first-team coach Steve Davis.

"I'm disappointed," said Willis.

"It feels like I've failed and that's frustrating.

"I felt we were building something for the future and was working towards a three-year plan.

"That's why I was bringing in these lads of 16 and 17.

"They're young and inexperienced but they will become good Thurlow Nunn League players. I can guarantee it.

"I was asked to build a young side for the future and one that didn't cost anything.

"That was my remit and that's what I was doing.

"I knew there was no budget when I came in and I'm not complaining about that.

"It didn't bother me and I felt we were moving forward, in the right direction.

"I was building foundations and had already spoken to more senior players about coming in next season."

Willis was appointed in November and thanked the club for giving him the opportunity to manage at Thurlow Nunn League level.

"I feel the club have changed their mind and now want to go in another direction," he added.

"I wasn't brought here to get instant results - building a good young side takes time and I would have achieved what I set out to do. I really believe that.

"I'm disappointed that just four months in, the club have decided they want to do things differently.

"However, I respect their decision and would like to thank them for giving me the opportunity.

"I wish them all the best for the future."

Chairman Mark Sorrell praised Willis' ability to coach young players and said he would be welcome to return as development manager, at the Eastcliff side.

"Jon's a good guy and in terms of coaching young players, I couldn't wish to have anyone better in charge," he said.

"However, we can't keep losing games and need a better mix of young and experienced players in the squad.

"That's why we've decided to go in a different direction."