Gradi rues disturbances
30 Apr 2007 - 10:49:49
Dario Gradi was disappointed that his final game as Crewe Alexandra manager was marred by a pitch invasion and fan disturbances after Saturday's 1-1 draw with Tranmere Rovers.
Gradi, the longest-serving manager in the Football League, will leave his post in the summer and become the club's new technical director with current academy boss Steve Holland becoming the first-team coach.
The 65-year-old was hoping to return to the pitch after the final home game of the season at the weekend to thank the fans but was advised not to by safety officers.
He said: "It was a good game spoiled at the end by some fans on the pitch fighting.
"The safety officers said the players couldn't go out because they had made seven arrests and it was a serious incident.
"It's a shame a few ruined it for the rest. The players were all really disappointed, but we couldn't argue with the decision."