Steve Rutter

Steve Rutter 03/04/1991 - 20/11/1993

Played 136, Won 53, Drew 39, Lost 44, Win Rate 38.97%

Steve Rutter followed previous manager Brian Hall to Huish as a player in 1987 after a successful partnership at Wealdstone. He went on to become player manager, beating more Football League sides in the FA Cup than any other manager.

Born in Northampton in October 1962, Rutter spent time with Northampton Town as a youth, before joining up with Wealdstone and meeting Brian Hall. A tough and organising centre-back he was respected by his colleagues, so it was no surprise when he was made captain shortly after the move to Huish Park. He was also the last player to touch a football in a competitive match at the old Huish. Rutter was a player throughout his managerial spell and was linked with other posts, but remained loyal. He was appointed in April 1991 initially on a caretaker basis, and given the task of avoiding relegation. His first match in charge saw a 7-2 victory over Slough Town, with goalkeeper Dave Fry scoring a wind assisted goal from his own area. He managed to ensure safety with two games to go.

His time in charge was blighted by financial difficulty at the club mainly caused by the move to Huish Park. The Arsenal FA Cup tie in early 1993 is widely regarded as the saviour of the club, generating sufficient cash to keep the club afloat. Rutter stood down in November 1993, and was replaced by Brian Hall for his second spell. Rutter took up a similar role at Trowbridge Town, but had to retire from playing due to a persistent ankle injury.

He has since coached in a variety of roles, mainly overseas, and returned to the club for a brief spell in 2017 as head of academy coaching.