Liam Friend dismissed as Herne Bay player-manager after six-match Isthmian South East winless streak

Liam Friend has been sacked as Herne Bay’s player-boss.

Defender Friend, who will turn 38 this month, leaves the mid-table Isthmian South East outfit towards the end of what would have been his first full season in charge.

A Tuesday evening club statement read: “Liam Friend has departed his role as player-manager of Herne Bay Football Club.

“Liam was appointed in June 2025 and led the team to some great results and performances and, also, collected his 100th appearance for the club during this period.

“The club thank Liam for his hard work and contribution to the club, and we wish him the best of luck for the future.”

Friend was appointed to his maiden managerial position at Winch’s Field last summer after he had previously served as a player-coach under Steve Lovell and then James Collins.

While Bay were knocked out of the FA Cup at the first hurdle to lower-division Hollands & Blair, they had looked like they could be battling it out for a play-off place until a recent downturn in form. They remain one of just two sides to beat play-off chasing Jersey Bulls on the island this season.

A 4-0 derby defeat at home to Ashford United last weekend extended their winless streak to six games - albeit they had lost to the top two, leaders Three Bridges (2-0) and second-placed AFC Croydon Athletic (4-0), in that run.

Friend, a fans’ favourite from his playing days with Folkestone Invicta where he was captain under legendary manager Neil Cugley, had also seen No.2 Tom Wynter and player-coach James Rogers depart ahead of their 2-2 derby draw at play-off chasing Faversham Town last month.

Herne Bay added a further statement will be released once a new manager has been named.

Their next fixture sees them host hapless basement boys