Rochester United name Greenways boss Andy Pierce as their new manager after Michael Betts steps down for personal reasons

Rochester United have appointed the manager of tenants Greenways as their new boss.

Andy Pierce succeeds Michael Betts, who led the Spartans to the Southern Counties East Division 1 play-off final last season before resigning on Friday due to personal reasons.

Pierce spent two years in charge of Greenways, who groundshare at Rochester’s Rede Court Road home, guiding them to a sixth-placed finish in the 25/26 campaign.

“Rochester United are delighted to announce the appointment of Andy Pierce as first-team manager,” said a club statement.

“Andy knows the club well, firstly as a previous Spartan and then through the excellent job he has done at Greenways.

“Andy will be assisted by Tony Whitaker, our record appearance holder and club captain, who will be stepping up into management for the first time, with Hicham Akhazzan continuing his role of first-team coach.”

Confirming Pierce’s exit, Greenways said: “We would like to thank him for his hard work, dedication and leadership during his time at Greenways.

“Everyone at the club wishes him every success in the future.”

Writing on social media, Pierce said he “can’t wait to get started, describing the job as a “huge opportunity”, while also thanking Greenways.