Prestatyn Town caretaker-manager Chris Morrell promises a big effort from his players tonight

Prestatyn Town’s caretaker-manager Chris Morrell has promised full commitment from his players ahead of Friday’s home Cymru North clash with Guilsfield (7.45 pm).

Previous boss Matty Roberts resigned yesterday after a mixed start to the league season, with 6-0 and 7-0 defeats and a fine 4-1 win over Bangor 1876 in between.

Morrell, who was already part of Roberts’ management team, is now stepping in to hold the fort while discussions on a permanent replacement are held.

A former Prestatyn Town player and captain, Morrell has also managed the North Wales Coast FA senior and under-18’s sides, as well as St Asaph City and Conwy Borough in the past.

He said: “Obviously the squad are shocked and saddened at Matty moving on. He has worked tirelessly since coming in and keeping the club up last year was the target reached.

“We all felt huge disappointment in last week’s defeat (7-0 at Ruthin) along with the effect of players leaving this week, but I know Matty has given everything he can to help the club and we can only wish him well.

“On my own circumstance, being Prestatyn-born and a former captain, I have said I will just try to help the team over the weekend to give the club some time to make decisions.

“We know there has been much turmoil recently but with its successful history, a hard-working owner, plans in place and a young group of players with lots of potential, this is going to be an attractive offer for any player or coach to be a part of.

“Anyway, we have to now move on to Friday night and put last week’s performance behind us.

“Results like that can happen to any team at times but we know we have an obligation to be far more competitive, which starts tonight.

“The crowd numbers, support and atmosphere at our last home game was something this group of players will remember for quite some time so we need that creating again and whatever the outcome, I can assure you these players and the staff will give their all.”