PAUL Lynch is set to become the new manager of Rossendale United following his resignation from Colne and the sensational sacking of Jim McBride at Dark Lane.

UniBond First Division outfit United are lining up their former captain to replace McBride, who was sacked on Saturday despite his team beating Harrogate Railway 2-1 in the first qualifying round of the FA Cup.

Rossendale secretary Kevin Proctor said: "Jim was relieved of his managerial post, which was a decision taken by the board during the week.

"It was based on performances and results so far this season, not Saturday's match. "

Former Manchester City striker David White, one of United's directors, will take charge of the team for tomorrow night's trip to Kendal Town but Lynch's departure from Colne suggests he will return to Dark Lane .

Proctor added: "Paul was a well-respected player and captain here and he's made a cracking start to his first full season of management, so he is somebody we will look at.

"David won't be taking the job as he couldn't fit it in, but if a young manager comes in he could work with him."

Lynch has led Colne to the top of North West Counties Division Two this season and they remained there on Saturday under the new managerial team of Nigel Coates and captain Gary Rishton, with a 4-1 home win over Eccleshall.

Colne chairman James Webster said: "Paul's departure is a bit of a shock and Steve Bird has gone with him so we've lost two players as well.

"We want to thank Paul for his contribution to Colne and wish him well in his new challenge."

Coates was a member of the famous Colne Dynamoes FA Vase-winning squad and had experience of club management with Nelson before returning to Colne as a player.

Webster said: "The aims of the club remain unchanged, promotion this season and continued progression to a higher level of football along with stadium and facilities development.

"I look forward to achieving our ambitions and supporting Nigel and Gary both on and off the field."

On Saturday, Carl Howarth and Steve Cunningham gave Coates and Rishton the perfect start with first-half goals in their 4-1 win.

The third goal came when a Gavin Cooper run ended with a fine ball to Howarth, who made no mistake from the edge of the area - and he completed his hat-trick after Eccleshall had pulled one back.

Coates said: "The win was the most important thing today after two disappointing results. We have played better but I cannot fault the lads for effort."

Meanwhile, McBride's reign ended in ironic success as Rossendale progressed to the second qualifying round of the FA Cup.

Russell Brierley volleyed in the first and after Harrogate Railway levelled the scores, Lee Cooper stooped to head the winner with 20 minutes left.