DORCHESTER Town Reserves manager Rich Robson has confirmed that the Magpies’ second string will cease to operate in league competition during the upcoming season.

Robson, who guided the Magpies to fifth in the Wyvern Combination Midweek Division and a runners-up spot in the John Stimpson Memorial Trophy, added that the club would seek friendlies with league sides during the 2018/19 campaign.

Speaking to Echosport regarding the decision to pull the team from the league circuit, Robson admitted he had “mixed feelings”.

He said: “The board took the decision that they felt the Wyvern League wasn’t good enough. Tommo (Steve Thompson, first-team manager) is of the same opinion.

“I have mixed feelings really. I’ve always supported the club and I’ve known Tommo for a long time.

“It would be nice to have as many teams as possible. I’ve felt that we’ve done well.

“We managed to bring players like Ben Morris, who’s just signed for the first team. It’s just a shame to miss out on younger local players – we’ve seen some good players pass through.

“The idea for the club is that they’ve tried to get friendlies dotted through the season with league clubs. Whether those teams are going to be available is something to be sorted out through the season.”

He added: “I’d like to thank Mark Robinson (stadium manager) and Ryan Dovell (assistant-manager).”

Robson, who is set on a career in management, also conceded the decision leaves him in limbo.

He said: “As it stands, I don’t know where I stand. I’ve worked the first six (first-team) sessions through pre-season.

“Tommo’s asked me to do a few little jobs here and there. I’m really keen to have a management role or an assistant-manager role in the future, and see what comes along.”