Ramsgate player-manager Jamie Coyle resigns after Isthmian South East play-off exit

Jamie Coyle has resigned as manager of Ramsgate after their Isthmian South East play-off exit.

Centre-back Coyle took over at Southwood in February after Ramsgate sacked Steve Lovell from his post.

Under Coyle, Ramsgate recorded just one defeat in 15 games but too many draws saw them fall short of champions Chatham in the final league table.

That meant a home play-off semi-final with Hythe but Steve Watt’s side triumphed on penalties after a 1-1 draw in extra-time on Tuesday night, to book their place in the final at Whitehawk.

“It’s been a pleasure managing the group,” said Coyle, speaking following their play-off exit. “It’s by far the best group that I’ve been involved in.

“In 22 seasons as a player and a coach and a manager, it’s the best, most hardworking, honest group of players that I’ve been involved with.

“It’s just a shame I couldn’t get them over the line this season. They are a good group and there’s a lot of youngsters that will have opportunities.

“The infrastructure now with the youth teams, the amount of coaches that are here, the fanbase, the changes the chairman’s made with the pitch, all the youth teams play here week in, week out, it’s ready to go to the next level and go again, so that’s a real disappointment.”

Coyle was proud of the results that Ramsgate picked up under his management, even if it ultimately meant his team fell short.

“At any level one defeat in 15 is usually enough to get over the line,” he reflected. “I took over when we were third in the league and mid to bottom half of the form table.

“The fact the boys have lost one in 15, which was away to Chatham, is testament to them and the work they’ve put in.

“We hit the buffers a bit towards the end of the season, too many draws, but I