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Southend United Parts Ways with Maher After Trophy Triumph

5/21/2026

29 7 Full Breakdown

Summary

Maher Departs

Southend United said manager Kevin Maher will leave after guiding the team to an FA Trophy win at Wembley.
The board will meet the afternoon to decide Maher’s future.
Oliver Gage was hired as director of football, with Jonathan Duckett named head of recruitment.
Assistant coaches Darren Currie and Mark Bentley overhauled the squad, which finished sixth in League Two and lost 1-0 to Scunthorpe United in the play-offs.

Summary

Maher Honored

Maher received the Freedom of the City of Southend in 2024 for his service during the club’s financial turmoil.
Jack Bridge scored a penalty in the shoot-out that clinched the FA Trophy.
Gus Scott-Morriss netted the decisive spot-kick and was praised for his long-term impact.
Maher told BBC Essex the win was a career milestone and praised the fans’ support.

History

Historical Context

In the 2009-10 Premier League season, Portsmouth FC struggled financially, owing about £10 million to HMRC and entering administration on 26 February 2010. The club’s administration triggered a nine-point deduction and relegation to 20th place, while Balram Chainrai took control and Avram Grant remained manager. This crisis highlighted growing scrutiny of English clubs’ finances.

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Maher Departs

Southend United said manager Kevin Maher will leave after guiding the team to an FA Trophy win at Wembley.
The board will meet the afternoon to decide Maher’s future.
Oliver Gage was hired as director of football, with Jonathan Duckett named head of recruitment.
Assistant coaches Darren Currie and Mark Bentley overhauled the squad, which finished sixth in League Two and lost 1-0 to Scunthorpe United in the play-offs.

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