COLNE player-chairman James Webster believes his side will emerge stronger following the shock departure of manager Paul Lynch last week, writes Suzanne Geldard.

Lynch, who has led the Reds to sit proudly at the top of the North West Counties First Division, handed in his resignation ahead of Saturday's 4-1 home win over Eccleshall.

Nigel Coates and captain Gary Rishton have taken temporary charge of the team with a view to becoming permanent replacements. They enjoyed their first win at the weekend and were hoping for a similar display when they entertain lowly Daisy Hill tonight.

But Colne will have to maintain their bid for promotion without Matt Houldsworth, Steve Cunningham and Steve Bird, who have all followed Lynch to Rossendale.

However, Webster is confident Colne can make the best out of what has been a surprising situation.

"It was a bolt out of the blue when Paul left, but we will come out stronger for it," he said.

"The club itself is still in a healthy position and nothing's going to change off the field. We're still looking at ground redevelopment.

"We've just got to be careful that it doesn't affect us on the field, but I don't think it will."

Webster admitted Coates and Rishton, who sits out tonight's game through injury, had already moved to strengthen the squad by signing central defender Craig Whittaker from Nelson.

The Reds were also hoping to bring in at least two new players this week.

"I think Gary and Nigel will make a good managerial partnership," Webster continued.

"Gary has a lot of contacts and Nigel has managed at this level before with Nelson.

"Plus, how many managers take over a team at the top of the league?

"They are taking over a good squad. Our main aim is still to get promotion and I think the squad will only get stronger."