Lee Clark has stepped down as head coach of Hartlepool United immediately after their 3-1 home defeat to Worthing. The loss marked the third consecutive defeat for the team and their sixth in seven games, dropping them to 18th place in the National League before afternoon matches on Saturday. Fans had been growing increasingly frustrated with the team's poor performance, and Clark's decision to resign came amid mounting pressure. Clark took charge of Hartlepool United in the summer following a brief stint with Rotherham United at the end of the previous season. However, the club's ongoing struggles led to calls for his departure during Saturday's match. In a statement to BBC Radio Tees, Clark said, "I resign from my position with immediate effect. I wanted to give this club and the fans something to be proud of, what they deserve, but I haven't been able to do that unfortunately." He also expressed his disappointment, stating, "I was excited to take the job and I wanted to be the man to get them back to where they need to be and deserve to be, but it hasn't worked out." Hartlepool United was purchased in January by American businessman Landon Smith, who aims to end the club's four-year stay in the National League. The club has faced significant managerial instability, with the search now beginning for their ninth permanent manager or head coach in this period outside the English Football League. The ongoing challenges highlight the difficulties the club has faced in maintaining consistent performance and stability. The National League is the fifth tier of English football, and Hartlepool's position at 18th indicates a struggle to avoid relegation. With Clark's departure, the club faces the challenge of finding a new leader to steer them back on track. The situation underscores the pressures faced by smaller clubs in non-league football, where financial and managerial instability can significantly impact performance.