Bristol City confirm the end of stand-in boss Beard’s tenure

Bristol City have officially confirmed that stand-in boss Matt Beard’s time with the club has come to an end.

The 43-year-old arrived at Twerton Park in January to cover permanent manager Tanya Oxtoby’s maternity leave. Beard signed a short term deal with The Robins until the end of the season.

When Beard took over, Bristol City were five points adrift of safety and after a marked improvement in both player fitness levels and performances, the club were only denied Barclays FA Women’s Super League survival by a cruel 3-1 defeat to Brighton & Hove Albion on the final day.

Speaking to FAWSL Full-Time after the final whistle on Sunday, Beard did not comment on what the future might hold for him, however, Bristol City have today confirmed that he is leaving the club at the end of his short term stay.

Following today’s news, Beard said “Thank you to the players and staff at Bristol City Women for the work they have put in over the last five to six months.

“I’ve said it before, I can’t fault the effort of anyone at the club for everything that they have put in this season and taking it to the last day – I’m gutted that we couldn’t finish the job that we set out to do.

“I wish everyone at the club the best of luck for the future.”

Beard took charge of Bristol City on 15 occasions in all competitions, recording three wins, four draws and eight defeats.