In 2013–14, managed by Danny Johnson, Nantwich finished 19th, despite not winning any of their last nine games. FA Cup hopes ended in the 1st qualifying round with defeat by Rugby Town and FA Trophy hopes were ended in the 3rd qualifying round by Northwich Victoria. Johnson's second season saw little improvement, and he lost his job in February 2015, being replaced by ex-player Phil Parkinson, assisted by Neil Sorvel and Danny Griggs. An improvement in results and performances meant Nantwich finished lower mid-table, with an FA Cup defeat to Salford City and an FA Trophy defeat to Ramsbottom United.