Ronnie Sharp takes charge at Rothes aiming for revival

With a focus on youth and experience, Sharp aims to steer Rothes away from relegation.

In a significant move for the Highland League club, Ronnie Sharp has been appointed as the new manager of Rothes, stepping into the role previously held by Richard Hastings. Sharp’s experience in the league, particularly with Nairn County, positions him as a promising figure to help revitalize a team currently struggling at the bottom of the table.

Challenges faced by Rothes

Rothes has a rich history of competing in the upper echelons of the Breedon Highland League, having clinched the R Davidson (Banchory) Highland League Cup in 2020 and the North of Scotland Cup the following year.

However, the current season has seen the team falter, culminating in a disheartening 6-0 defeat to Strathspey Thistle, which marked the end of Hastings’ tenure. Under interim management, Rothes managed a win against Turriff United, but the club remains in a precarious position, sitting at the bottom of the league.

Sharp’s managerial experience

At 58 years old, Sharp brings a wealth of experience to the role. His previous stints at Nairn County saw him successfully navigate challenging situations, lifting the team from the lower ranks of the league.

Sharp expressed optimism about the potential at Rothes, noting that the squad, while young, possesses talent that can be harnessed effectively. He stated, “I know what the job is and the work that’s required, but I know how to do it.” His familiarity with the Highland League dynamics will be crucial as he seeks to implement his strategies.

Plans for the future

Sharp’s immediate goal is to steer Rothes away from the threat of relegation. He acknowledges the urgency of the situation, emphasizing the need for results right away. “Relegation is a big issue now and the threat of it means there is no time to build now,” he remarked. Sharp plans to assess the current squad and identify areas for improvement, particularly focusing on bringing in experienced players to mentor the younger talents. Rothes chairman Iain Paul has expressed confidence in Sharp’s ability to make an impact, highlighting the club’s readiness to support the new manager in strengthening the team.

Looking ahead

As Sharp embarks on this new chapter at Rothes, the club’s supporters are hopeful that his leadership will lead to a turnaround in fortunes. With a blend of youth and experience, Sharp aims to not only avoid relegation but also to restore Rothes to its former competitive stature in the Highland League. The coming weeks will be critical as the team seeks to build momentum and climb the league table.