Walton takes up the challenge

Billy Walton will take charge of Fisher for the rest of the season. Photo: Jacopo Maino

Fisher FC today appointed Billy Walton as first team manager until the end of the season, renewing an association with the club that goes back decades.

Billy was popular as assistant manager to Steve Firkins last season, and he takes charge with immediate effect and with the challenge of lifting the Fish off the foot of the table ahead of him. That task starts on Saturday with a trip to local rivals Beckenham Town.

Billy spoke to fisherfc.co.uk about his appointment and started by heaping praise on Steve Firkins, who stepped down last night:

“What can I say about Firko? He is a great football man and all round nice guy, one of the best and I enjoyed the success that came our way as we worked together over the years. It’s right that he puts his family first at the moment, and I wish them all the best.”

Fisher fans will of course associate Billy with his commitment to an attractive passing game – “carpet football” as it became known after an interview at the start of last season. Walton confirmed that Fisher will look to pick up results playing the only way he knows – on the ground.

Talking about the challenge ahead, Bill said: “It’s a great honour to be in charge of this fantastic club and I hope I can do it proud.”

Billy takes charge of training on Tuesday evening at Fisher’s Bermondsey training base, City Academy, and he has asked that all current Fisher players attend as usual. And then it’s the short trip to face Beckenham, whose outstanding Eden Park Avenue pitch is certainly a surface that will suit the ‘carpet football’ style.

Fisher can also confirm that assistant manager Gary Davies has also left the club following the change in management. Gary, whose association with Fisher goes back many years, put his heart and soul into the club this season as he supported Steve Firkins. The club are extremely grateful for everything he put in, and wish him the very best for the future.