Newry Network: | Visitors Guide to Newry & Mourne | Newry Online | Enterprise Newry | Newry Chat| Newry U3A | Add Your Site 

6 June 2000WYLIE APPOINTED MANAGER

After a fairly miserable season at the Showgrounds Mal Donaghy has left to manage the N.Ireland under 18's. When he took over at Newry Town just eight months the club where close to top of the league but only finished sixth at the end of the season. Was this all Mal's fault? Doubtful, since the wolf has been at the door for some time. Many fans will however remember Mal for the opportunities he has given to many young local hopefuls such as John Joe Maguire and Seamus Kane.
Former Loughgall manager Alfie Wylie has been appointed as Mal Donaghys successor this week. News on the grapevine also suggests that out-of-contract keeper John Connolly could be moving to another Irish League club, while Dean Fitzgerald has signed a new contract. It is believed that Stuart McLean should remain at the Showgrounds next season after a deal with Ards fell through. Robbie Casey and Mark Rutherford are making good progress with their injuries and are back in training next week.

16 April 2000TOWN STUFFED

Newry Town lost this weekend by five goals to nil at Portadown. Vinny Arkins opened the scoring with a 20th minute penalty and scored again in the 72nd minute. Sheridan, Hill and former Newry Town player Adrian Larkin scored the others.
In mid-week the Town also lost to league winners Linfield by three goals to two at Windsor Park. The Newry scorers were John Joe Maguire and Niall King.
 

26 Mar  2000TOWN SECURE SIXTH SPOT

Newry Town have secured sixth spot in the table and eased relegation worries with a 2-0 win over Crusaders. John McDonnell opened the scoring after 14 minutes with a header from a John Hooks corner and John Joe Maguire sealed the 2-0 win after 37 minutes with his fifth goal of the season.

18 Mar  2000BACKS TO THE WALL

Newry Town can now aim for a respectable finishing spot in the league, presently lying in sixth spot on level points with Crusaders. The Town managed to pick up three points from struggling Distillery at Ballyskeagh. Peter Withnell opened the scoring after a goalkeeping error by Henry. After half-time Bates managed to pull one back for Lisburn after 55 minutes but Newry took the lead again after 82 minutes with a Dean Fitzgerald header. Dean is really starting to find his form after a shaky start at the Showgrounds. Substitute Wall put Newry 3-1 in front but Darren Armour pulled one back for Distillery in injury time.  

9 Mar 2000DRAKE WINS DAMAGES 

Former Newry Town defender Jonathan Drake, who gave great service to the club while there was taking action against his former club in the courts this week. The legal action has arisen out of misrepresentations on club contracts while at Newry Town. He successfully defeated the club and has been awarded almost £5,000 damages. Former Newry Chairman Joe Rice has pointed the finger at Secretary Eamonn Cole who has denied any wrongdoing.
It has transpired that Directors Trevor Anderson and Joe Rice handed Drake a blank contract to sign after agreeing terms but the terms were subsequently changed when put on the contract. Joe Rice speaking in court blamed Eamonn Cole stating that he must have misheard the contract terms as they were relayed to him, however Cole insists that he has nothing to do with the financial side of the club and merely drew up contracts according to instruction. Judge Randal McKay sided with Drake whose version of events was by far the more sound of the two. Drake has missed a seasons football due to the wranglings but has now been compensated leaving the already cash-straped club closer to bankruptcy. Joe Rice admitted that he left the club during a time of increasing financial difficulties. Drake is only one of a series of players who have suffered wage difficulties with the club. Mark Rutherford, Dessie Gorman and Kevin McKeown are but a few of those affected in the past.

5 Feb 2000TOWN FLIRT WITH RELEGATION

Newry Town remain dangerously close to the relegation zone and after todays match Mal Donaghy called for his players to 'respond and stand up to be counted'. The team do need to build their confidence after losing 3-0 to Linfield at home today in the League and 4-0 earlier in the week to the Blues in the Coca Cola Cup. In todays match Jamie Marks opened the scoring after 14 minutes. Ian McCoosh added the second after 28minutes and substitute Davy Larmour added the third. 

29 Jan 2000TOWN SLUMP TO SEVENTH

Newry were hoping for a repeat of last weeks match but they found an in form Glenavon and frustation as two Newry players saw red. Glenavon were two ahead by half-time with goals from Baxter and Grant, but were down to ten men as Lee Doherty was sent off.
In the second half Stuart Addis saved a Dessie Gorman penalty before new man Peter Withnell was sent off. Gavin Arthur scored Glenavons third and to top things off for Newry they went down to nine men as Stuart McLean was dismissed. The Town drop to seventh in the table only three points ahead of Cliftonville 

22 Jan 2000NEWRY TO MEET BANBRIDGE IN SIXTH ROUND

The Irish Cup Fifth Round saw Newry drawn with high flying Glenavon and the odds were stacked against the Town with the return of Stephen Baxter to the Glenavon squad. However on the day the Newry defence proved to be too strong and keeper Spackman was rarely troubled. Mark Rutherford scored the only goal of the match with a speculative lob after a clash with the Glenavon keeper, after 7 minutes, but went off injured later in the game. Gorman and Reddish also had chances which they really should have buried. In the draw for the sixth round Newry were drawn with neighbours Banbridge and Bessbrook Utd were drawn with premiership team Ballymena. So Newry v Bessbrook in the Quarter Finals ? 

15 Jan 2000ARKINS 84 SECOND GOAL

It couldn't have been worse for Newry today. After Vinny Arkins put one past Alex Spackman after only 84 seconds, three minutes later defender Jonathan Cowan was sent off. Although Mark Rutherford was unlucky and Portadown could have scored again it was a rather dull match. 

14 Jan 2000FEEHAN RELEASED WITHNELL SIGNS TOWN YOUTH EXPELLED

Ciaran Feehan has been released from his contract with the Town to be replaced by Peter Withnell, signed on loan from Cliftonville. Ciaran's form this season has been disappointing..lets hope he makes a comeback soon. Seamus Kane, the Newry local, has  also signed a one-year professional contract.
In other news this week the Town Youth team have been expelled from the league along with Carrick Youth after a 2-0 result was recorded in a match that Newry Youth failed to turn up for. Both clubs were also fined £250.

9 Jan 2000TALK OF NEW STAND

In other News this week the Newry Town FC Board have been seeking support for the building of a new stand - obviously following pressure from this website :-). Morton McKnight and Colman Rooney have been on the job and it is rumoured that Chelsea and Luton may play frendlies this summer to help raise funds. Both clubs are former homes of Newry manager Mal Donaghy. The Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland youth Teams are also to play at the Showgrounds soon.
Mal Donaghy is also to form a school of excellence in the summer in his role as IFA Youth Development Officer.

8 Jan 2000CASEY SAVES THE DAY

Four minutes into todays game at the Showgrounds and it looked as though Newry were to fall prey of 'Player of the Month' Tommy McCallion. Tommy opened the scoring with a thirty yard strike and his creative attacks dogged the Newry defence throughout the game. Newry however levelled the score after 22 minutes when Stuart McClean headed a Soupie Campbell corner. In the second half after a downpour of rain Cliftonville again took the lead after a scramble in the Newry box. After 20 minutes of the second half the Town were awarded a free kick on the edge of the box. Dessie Gorman took a dummy run and Robbie Casey blasted it along the ground and beyond the keeper. Newry's winning goal came shortly after when they were again awarded a free kick - this tiome 40 yards from goal. Casey again blasted it into goal. Although Cliftonville tried gallantly to salvage some points the score ended 3-2.Newry remain fifth in the table but are level on points with Portadown.

4 Jan 2000GOAL OF THE CENTURY

Newry Town today lost out to the first goal of the new millennium. Crusaders star Crawford McCrea scored after only four minutes leaving the Newry defence in disarray. Although Glenn Dunlop hit the cross-bar for the Crues, he also had to clear a Mark Rutherford chance off the line, and Robbie Casey was denied twice towards the end. Despite the Newry efforts the goal of the century was the only goal of the match leaving the score 1-0.Newry remain fifth in the table but are level on points with the two teams below them.

27 Dec 1999PENALTY RE-TAKE WOE FOR TOWN

The Town agian lost out in the dying minutes against a poor Distillery side who rarely threatened to score. The Town dominated the first half and came close to scoring on several occasions. They continued to attack in the second half but couldn't find the net.  Dependable Dessie Gorman scored on 75 minutes from a quickly taken Raymond Campbell free kick to give Newry the lead. It looked as The Town could walk away 2-0 winners when Robbie Casey fired hone a penalty but a re-take was ordered due to the encroachment of the Distillery Physio on the pitch. The re-take was saved by David Henry and less than a minute later with the Newry team shocked Distillery defender Chris Deegan snatched an equaliser and a share of the points. Mal Donaghy, Newry manager was furious at referee Jim Peden's decision to re-take the penalty and is quoted as saying ' I have been in the game a long time and thought I had seen everything, but quite simply in this instance the referee cost us full points.'
In other news this week, Dessie Gorman was taken off the transfer list after his differences with the club were settled.  

18 Dec 1999TOWN FAIL TO REPEAT LAST WEEKS WIN

Newry Town today failed to build on the 3-0 win over the Glens last week. The Glens took the lead from a Scott Young penalty after Robbie Casey brought down Brian Russell in the box. Robbie Casey then shot 20 minutes later from the far post and Seamus Kane intervened to put the sides level. Scott Youngs second goal of the match gave the Glens all three points, wining 2-1.Newry remain fifth in the table but are well within reach of the teams below.

11 Dec 1999 TOWN THROUGH AWAY POINTS

The Town today threw away 3 points letting Ballymena come back to draw 2-2. John McDonnell, despite recent cartilage surgery scored first. and Raymond Campbell followed it up with another on 34 minutes. Newry dominated in the first half but failed to sustain the pressure in the second half. Ciaran Feehan's penalty was saved eight minutes into the second half and this set the stage for a Ballymena comeback. Phillip Knell scoring their first and Glenn Hunter got the equaliser.

4 Dec 1999TOWN BACK TO WINNING WAYS

The Town today reaffirm their position as the Glentoran boggie team and also consolidated fifth position in the table. Newry's top scorer Mark Rutherford set the ball rolling with his sixth goal of the season. Glentoran couldn't even manage a shot on target in the first half. Ciaran Feehan added a second goal, only his second of the season and Robbie Casey scored the third after 65 minutes with a shot into the top corner reportedly the goal of the day.
In other news, Alex Spackman of Crusaders has signed for Newry to fill the goalkeeping position vacated by Mark Cartwright who returned to Wrexham and the injured John Connolly. Paul Stranney is still on crutches and John could be out for a month after breaking a bone in his hand.

1 Dec 1999TOWN OVERCOME REDS IN SHIELD

On a wet floodlit night at the Showgrounds Newry Town managed to turn the tide of recent form to overcome Cliftonville in the Co. Antrim Shield, beating them by two goals to one. In the only first round tie with two premiership clubs, a goal from Dean Fitzgerald and an own goal will see Newry meeting Crusaders in the second round

27 Nov 1999MALS MEN SLIP TO SIXTH

The Town's performance today at the Showgrounds was truly a return to the schoolyard soccer we were so familiar with while playing in Division One. Where have the club gone wrong ?
In a week that another local player Kieran McParland (23) had to leave as his contract was not renewed - (Sound familiar - the same happened to Larkin!) the Town board have been wrangling with bad publicity. Could the secret of the Towns downfall be its lack of support and encouragement to local players. Most of which are as good as (and cheaper than) imports like Kevin McKeown. McKeown has been in the news this week as he is considering suing the club for non-payment of wages- although these allegations have been denied by Coleman Rooney - who retorted with an attack on McKeowns unprofessional attitude.
Also of news this week - Tom McKeown (of a much more professional attidue than his namesake) has volunteered as Commercial Manager. Tom has been linked to the club for over 30 years and was secretary from 1967-69.
Newry 0 - Linfield 3. I need say nothing more, the majority of Newry fans had left while there was still 20 minutes to go. Although this was also to avoid being penned in by the RUC. Political events were notably to the fore as a UVF flag was hung on the Linfield half for the majority of the first half- the RUC and stewards failing to remove it, a familiar failure to enforce ground rules on the away stands! The Town were terrible, just like the weather and the scoreline could easily have been 0-6. Although there were some good individual performances, notably John McDonnell and new keeper Cartwright, the team need some serious work on passing and teamwork. But the chances of Mal gathering the team around him for some serious training are about as unlikely as Newry winning a match.Prediction:Newry will be fighting relegation in April.

20 Nov 1999SLIDE DOWN TABLE CONTINUES
The Town continued their run of bad form under Mal Donaghy. They went down 2 goals to nil at Coleraine today. The first half was uninspiring and both teams failed to make an impact. However, it was Coleraine who came out re-newed in the second half and scored twice in two minutes. A 58th minute header and a 59th minute 6 metre finish from Chillingsworth. The cold winter has set in and The Town continue to slide beyond the reach of a European place and the renewed dreams of last summer.
12 Nov 1999FIRST HOME DEFEAT
Mark Rutherford again showed his class in this Friday night thriller though highlighted the need for a dependable striker at Newry. New Keeper Mark Cartright also had a good game with impressive kick-outs. The Town were disappointing in the first half still depending on the 'whack it and hope for the best' tactics employed in the past - Has anything changed since Mal Donaghy took over? Consistent pressure from Glenavon paid off when they took the lead after 19 minutes. Tony Grant, who was very impressive down the right side sprinted free to the right corner and crossed to the box for Stephen Baxter to drive into the net. It was a nice move but Glenavon failed to come up with anything else. In the second half Newry looked the better side and Glenavon struggled to clear several attempts by Chris Murphy. The Town took on substitutes John McDonnell, Carl Hughes and Vaughn who failed to make a realistic impact - The game ended 0-1 to Glenavon.
Newry Town:Cartwright, Kane, Hall, Cowan, McLean, Reddish, Fitzgerald, Casey, Treanor, Murphy, Rutherford Subs: McDonnell, Vaughn, Hughes
6 Nov 1999PLAYERS LISTED AS TOWN DRAW WITH BALLYMENA
Rumours surrounded todays game - who is going to be next on the transfer list ? Stuart McLean - Dessie Gorman has already been linked to a move to Ards, were Joe Rice and Trevor Anderson have taken up the reigns. Getting old and unfit it is probably the best thing for the club that Gorman moves on.
Going into the game today Newry had only won one away fixture and after two minutes it looked as though this game was going to be the same. John Gregg fired home to give Ballymena the lead. After only ten minutes Newry man Ciaran Feehan who's football of late has been 'iffy' was sent off after a high tackle. Ten man Newry hit back in the second half with a goal from Soupie Campbell, a header into the bottom corner from a Mark Rutherford cross after 71 mins. Newry then took the lead after 81 minutes after Ballymena's Colberstone sent the ball into his own goal from a Ben Trainor flick. It looked as though the Town could pull off a second away win but Phillip Knell made it 2-2 on 90 minutes.
23 Oct 1999NO LUCK AT SHAMROCK PARK
The club were in court this week defending accusations that they had an outstanding tax bill to the Inland Revenue. Club Officials took the opportunity to reassure everyone that the bills were cleared. After last weeks match manager Mal Donaghy announced that he was lookin for new players from the Irish League, League of Ireland and England. At todays match at Shamrock Park the Town were held to a nil-nil draw with the Ports. Portadown started the stronger team with shots from ace striker Vinny Arkins. Ports keeper Dalton made a fine save when Dean Fitzgerald headed a Mark Rutherford cross at goal. Rutherford caused all the problems with fine runs down the left but Newry lacked finishing ability - an area of obvious weakness in recent weeks. On 90 mins 'Soupie' Campbell cleared the ball of the line from another Arkins shot and Newry managed to escape with the draw leaving them third in the table on goal difference.
16 Oct 1999TOWN LOSE OUT AT SEAVIEW
Seven minutes into this game keeper Connolly brought down Martin Reilly and the Crus were awarded a penalty. The penalty was converted by ex-Newry player Trevor Smith. Although Crusaders were the better taem in the first half Newry took control of the second half but couldn't manage to get anything on the scoresheet despite shots from Murphy and Trainor and a header from Casey, who is back from injury. In the end it was 1-0 and the Town dropped to fourth in the table.
12 Oct 1999TAXING TIMES AHEAD
It has been disclosed in a local newspaper today that the Inland Revenue have told four clubs - Newry, Coleraine, Portadown and Ards- to wind up business due to a failure to pay tax bills.
The hearing in court is scheduled for 21 October. Newry Secretary Eamon Cole has stated that he believed that any bills outstanding had been paid and he had nothing more to disclose on the matter.
Meanwhile in the first round of the Gold Cup Newry have overcome Lisburn Distillery one goal to nil- the strike coming from new boy Chris Murphy.
9 Oct 1999RUTHERFORD STIKES AGAIN
Mark Rutherford made it 5 goals in 5 outings today when he scrambled home the first goal of the day from a Campbell cross. New boy Raymond Campbell had an impressive debut. Newry built on the lead in the second half with Dessie Gorman sent one home fed through by Fitzgerald. Cliftonville pulled one back when Tommy McAllion sent a speculate shot under the arms of keeper Connolly, who apart from that blunder had a very good game. Hopes of a Reds comeback were dashed however when Dean Fitzgerald registered his first goal for the town, from a cross supplied by Rutherford. The final score was a respectable 3-1 and the Town remain third in the table.
2 Oct 1999TOWN OVERCOME 10 MAN GLENS
Drama hit the Showgrounds today after only four minutes when the Glentoran defender Chris Walker, was sent off for dissent after a verbal encounter with the linesman. Although the Glens looked the better side for much of the game, sustained Newry attacks paid off when Mark Rutherford (after being switched from left to right side) dribbled the ball past two defenders out of the right corner and shot to the far post for what could well be the Newry Town goal of the season.
Glentoran had many chances in the second half, one of which was cleared off the line with a bicycle kick, fate was on the side of Newry and the encounter ended
1-0 to the home side. Newry now remain third in the table.
25 Sept 1999NEWRY LOSE FIRST MATCH WITH MAL IN CHARGE
Newry today lost their first match with manager Mal Donaghy in charge. They went down 3-1 to Linfield at Windsor Park. Linfield dominated the whole match and the first goal was scored after 29 minutes by Chris Morgan. In the second half Tony Gorman extended that lead after 56 minutes. Newry managed to pull one back with a goal from Treanor but less than a minute later Linfields David Larmour tucked one away to restore the two goal advantage. Although the game wasn't 'dirty' with only Reddish receiving a yellow card, Ciaran Feehan was stretchered off and Tony Scappaticci also came off injured.
21 Sept 1999NEW MANAGER APPOINTED
Rumours are flooding the Town today after the appointment of Mal Donaghy as new manager of Newry Town FC.This event is only the latest instalment of the current saga which has seen the departure of Joe Rice, Chris Coffey, Adrian Larkin and Barry Tumilty among others. The people on the street are asking how much is the deal worth? Where has the funding come from? What happened to the £70,000 raised from the Man Utd game? Where is the new stand we were promised? and Is Vinney Arkins going to sign for Newry now?
Maybe some of these questions will be answered soon but those to do with finances are being kept under wraps!
28th Aug 1999NEWRY YET TO WIN A MATCH
In the third match of the season Newry Town have yet to win a match. Out of three matches they have drawn two matches and lost one. However they are not completely to blame as last week they were missing Adrian Larkin and Shane Reddish through red card suspension and Robbie Casey through injury. In the first half of the match Newry battled hard with numerous strong attacks but the Portadown defense held strong. In the 52nd minute Dessie Gorman gave an inch perfect cross to Mark Rutherford who had a clear shot to hit it into the net. Ten minutes later Vinny Arkins equalized for Portadown with a very disorganized and scrappy goal. Just a few minutes later Feehan crossed perfectly to the Hawk who was prowling in the box. Dessie struck with a magnificent power-header which struck the crossbar and bounced on the line. Despite an unbelievable improvement in Dessie Gorman's speed, stamina and determination the Showground man of the match however must go to Cerian Feehan who displayed great skill and accuracy throughout the match.
29 August 1999CLEAN OUT IN THE CLOSED SEASON
On the 12th of August both Sammy Shiels and Gary Peebles said goodbye to the Showgrounds as they left for Ards F.C. while Barry Tumilty left to join with former manager Nigel Best at Ballymena United. On the previous day the signing of Dean Fitzgerald, Shelbourne midfielder was completed. Trevor Smith has left the club and so too has Alan Byrne in order to play football "closer to home". Perhaps the worst blow Newry received during the closed season was the departure of John Kenney who left to join League of Ireland side Finn Harps. Chris Coffey and John White also waved goodbye to sign for Larne and Dundalk respectively.

11th July 1999TOWN ARE CHAMPIONS IN EUROPE
Today in front of a massive crowd Newry Town put on one of the greatest displays of football the Showgrounds has ever seen. Against all on the odds and expectations Newry fought tooth and nail showing excellent displays of real European football to triumph over the Bundes League side MSV Duisburg (the Lucky Zebras). In the twenty eighth minute Robbie Casey cleared the ball away from a German attack. The ball was picked up by John Drake who crossed the ball into the MSV box where Marko rose up to head it into the back of the net following a slight deflection from Duisburg's Martin Schneider. Newry were not content with this however so they continued to battle to get another goal. One of the closest other chances Newry had was in the twenty sixth minute when a John Kenney cross fell too short for a Dessie Gorman header. The discontent German side fought on and towards the end of the match they were the dominant side making the fans fearful of an equalizing goal in the final moments of the match. Thankfully this was not the case and Newry can now hold their heads high and call themselves champions even though they failed to qualify for the third round in Turkey.

4th July 1999TOWN DEFEATED IN EUROPE
On Saturday the 3rd of July the Newry Town squad flew out from Belfast airport to meet a team that achieved eighth position in one of the world's best soccer leagues, the Bundes League. MSV Duisburg (the Zebras) have only recently come on form as they played very poorly for most of the season but they did manage to win their last seven league matches which enabled them to qualify for the Intertoto Cup and also get a bye directly into the second round.
9 minutes into the match and Newry, although playing in a very defensive formation, had the first goal-scoring opportunity of the game. Mark Rutherford took a corner and the ball landed at the feet of Barry Tumilty who was waiting in the box. He shot on his first touch but was unlucky as a Duisburg player blocked the shot and played the ball out of danger.
At eleven minutes Adrian Larkin made a run up the wing from the half way line outrunning several MSV Duisburg players and crossed the ball into the box where the Hawk was prowling but Larkin's cross fell short. In the seventeenth minute the Zebra's launched their first proper attack of the game when Uwe Spies took a shot from inside the box only to hit the crossbar, the lose ball landed at the feet of another Duisburg player but he was blocked by his team-mate Spies who was lying on the ground at this stage. Then a third Duisburg player took a shot from the resulting lose ball which failed to trouble Town keeper Kevin McKeown. Another shock came in the thirty-sixth minute when Mark Rutherford received a yellow card for tripping a Duisburg player. This was closely followed by a yellow for Shane Reddish who made a bad foul on Wohlert. Kevin McKeown then made a terrific save from a Duisburg free kick. Half time score was 0-0.
In the 49th minute a shot was deflected by Kevin McKeown and Uwe Spies caught the ball on the rebound with a terrific header deceiving keeper McKeown.
The Zebras scored again in the 56th minute but it was disallowed as it was offside. Six minutes later Stefan Emmerling took a tremendous shot from outside the box but Kevin McKeown made a terrific dive to make a clean catch.
In the 63rd minute Chris Coffee replaced Barry Tumilty.
At 74 minutes a high powered shot by Emmerling was deflected by McKeown and substitute Markus Beierle knocked the ball into the net on the rebound.
42 minutes after the interval Seamus Kane replaced Dessie (The Hawk) Gorman who was complaining about a tight hamstring in his left leg.
In the 87th minute Thomasz Hajto fouled Stuart McLean badly and so he received the final yellow card of the game.
There were about one hundred Newry supporters in the ground and the final gate was 11850, including press and sponsors this was brought up to 13000.
For more information please see the
Intertoto (UI) page.

26 June 1999NEWRY TRIUMPH IN EUROPE
On a dreary cold and wet summers day at the Showgrounds history was made. After the narrowest of defeats in the first leg the Newry fans were confident that their team would perform well. Within the team however, there was another driving force - the previous day's news that their chairman Joe Rice was considering his position within the club for personal reasons. The absence of Hrvatski Dragavolijac's key player and the wet weather gave Newry the edge they needed and they were not afraid to show off their skill. In the opening five minutes Newry were nearly ahead when a superb over head kick by Dessie Gorman whistled past the post. After 19minutes a precise cross found Robbie Casey's head which knocked the ball off the post and into the net. The 'Croatian Volunteers' were not going to settle for an aggregate draw and so the battled on with great skill and persistence. But the day belonged to Newry when Dessie Gorman was substituted by Adrian Larkin and the 19 year old local boy's first touch from a John Kenny pass shot past the keeper who was rumored to be the best keeper in the Croatian league. Joe has now reconsidered his decision and will remain at Newry. Newry will now play German side Duisburg on Sunday next for the first leg of the second round and the possibility of German television coverage of the second leg at the Showgrounds.

19 June 1999STILL A EUROPEAN CHANCE FOR NEWRY
Newry Town F.C. flew out from Ireland on Thursday unaware of the ability of their opponent's ability. Armed only with the knowledge that the team had four international players on their side and finished fourth in the Croatian league, Newry advanced into battle. Kevin McKeown was a great asset to the team as he managed to pull off three stunning saves. Dessie Gorman made an outstanding effort which was narrowly blocked by keeper Sihynio Kakarlo. In the dying moments substitute Trevor Smith made a glancing header from a well taken corner which whistled narrowly past the post. This means that Newry had to settle for a 1-0 defeat and the fat lady will sing at the Showgrounds on Saturday next.

17 June 1999NEWRY FLY OUT TO EUROPE
Newry will today flyout to Croatia to play Hrvatski Dragovoljac. They play their match on Saturday at six o'clock. If they win they will play the German side MSV Duisburg from Bundesliga.
However, misfortune struck the club when they were made aware that midfielder Alan Byrne would be suspended for this European match because of a red card he received four years ago. "Alan was playing for Shelbourne in Europe in 1995 when he was sent off in a game against an Icelandic team and unfortunately we have been told his suspension still holds," stated Mr Rice.
In order to compensate this the club have made a move to sign right sided player Shane Reddish from Dundalk. Former Newry joint manager Ollie Ralph who is now with Dundalk allowed the temporary release of this player for Newry's Inter-toto matches.

3 June 1999NEWRY TO PLAY HRVATSKI DRAGOVOLJAC
It has been officially announced that Newry will play the Croatian side Hrvatski Dragovoljac who finished 4th in the Croatian league this year on the 19th (away) and 26th (home) of June. Club chairman, Joe Rice is confident that the Town have a realistic chance against this European offensive.
"They don't appear to be much better equipped than ourselves perhaps a little step higher but we are approaching this positively intent on reaching the next round"
When asked about preparation, Mr Rice replied,
"Obviously he will now be formulating our plans. We have obtained some background and are hoping to get a video on them... we are taking a party of around 40. We travel to Gatwick, stay overnight and then catch an early morning flight to Zagreb. Travel- wise we have everything in place."

29 May 1999PRE SEASON FRIENDLY ANNOUNCED
Grimsby Town are to play Newry in a friendly game on the 22nd July at the Showgrounds. There are no signs yet of any bigger teams coming in the close season.

25 May 1999CASEY SIGNED FOR NEWRY
Local forward Robbie Casey is to come to Newry Town on a free transfer after he refused to sign a new contract with Portadown. This is ahead of the UEFA registration deadline so he will be eligible to play in Europe with Newry.

20 May 1999PAUL STRANNEY BACK IN HOSPITAL
Paul Stranney, Newry's injured goalkeeper has had to be readmitted to hospital after an infection had set into his leg. This, however, has not made him any less determined to get back to training which he hopes to restart at Christmas. The man who accidentally injured Paul, Glen Hunter, visited him in hospital bringing him a gift and they both enjoyed each others' company.

3 May 1999CROATIAN CONFLICT IS GOOD NEWS FOR NEWRY
Newry could be set for a bigger sum of money than they expected thanks to their first opponents in the Inter-Toto Cup. Newry have been drawn to play a side from Croatia, but due to the continued conflict in the Balkans football in the surrounding countries cannot be played. Therefore, Newry may be given a bye into the second round where a German side (probably Werder Bremen) will face them. This game may be broadcast on Irish or/and German television and should attract a large crowd.

25 April 1999UEFA CUP PLACE IS OUT OF REACH
Due to the mid-week victory of Cliftonville over Linfield in the Bass Irish Cup, a place in the UEFA cup was out of reach for Newry as they traveled to Solitude today. However, they were not left on their own as a vast Newry support led them to a two-nil win. Cliftonville who are fighting relegation were not about to give Newry an easy match as their strength and persistence was eminent throughout the first half. They put Newry keeper John Connolly to the test with many great shots but Connolly kept his cool to the frustration of the Cliftonville supporters. Unfortunately, the first half also saw Anto Mitchell being stretchered off with a leg injury bringing uneasy memories to the Newry players.
The second half saw a fine display from the Newry squad with exceptional play from both Mark Rutherford and John Kenny. Alan Byrne found the roof of the net in the 65th minute and Mark Rutherford was fouled in the box. A penalty was converted to a goal by Smith. Final result Newry 2-0 Cliftonville.

17 April 1999STRANNEY INJURY DAMPENS BALLYMENA WIN
After a minutes silence for those who died at Hillsborough ten years ago, the Ballymena and Newry sides got down to business, although Newry were without stalwart Dessie Gorman - suspended after receiving a red card in a reserves match. Only five minutes into the game the Ballymena forwards were stressing the Newry defense, Stranney called for a ball which McDonnell was defending and in the resulting clash with Ballymena's Glenn Hunter the keeper suffered a broken leg. Play stopped for almost five minutes and Paul was removed, obviously in shock, to the clubhouse, from where he was later taken to the Royal Hospital. Early indications are that his right leg has been broken in two places and it is hoped he will be back playing again by Christmas. Adrian Larkin then replaced the injured Stranney and with his Gaelic football experience proved an asset in goals.
After 44 minutes Stuart McLean hit home following a beautiful cross from Mark Rutherford putting Newry in the driving seat. In the second half the Town weakened and Ballymena struck several shots just wide of the target. Adrian Larkin pulled off some fine saves and attacks from Trevor Smith and Sammy Shiels were cleared off the line at the other end of the pitch.
Crusaders lost at Mourneview meaning that if Crus lose their final match with Linfield and Newry overcome Cliftonville then the Town have a chance of slipping into the UEFA Cup. Its all down to the final match at Solitude !

10 April 1999Disappointing Reserve Match
The Town today fielded an almost complete first team squad for this reserves match with Distillery. Newry treated the match with all the seriousness of a training match - this was reflected in the 3-2 victorious result. Despite the good scoreline some players became over ambitious in the heat of competitiveness and goal scorer Dessie Gorman was sent for an early shower seeing red after clashing with a Distillery player. This may cause him to miss next Saturday's league match against Ballymena.

20/3/99SHOCK RESIGNATION Today saw, not only a dismal match for Newry against Linfield(2-1) but also the shock resignation of the two Newry managers, Ollie Ralph and Harry Fay. They broke the news just minutes after the match ended. In an interview, Ollie Ralph commented, "..we were just totally worn out". He also added (in relation to Joe Rice and Trevor Anderson's feelings), "Those boys are totally appreciative of our position and they know where we are coming from, they know our feelings. There is no animosity what so ever." When asked of the possibility of Trevor Anderson taking over he replied, "He has been more of a help to our staff, but I think Trevor's managerial days are over, to be honest!" Now the search is on to find a new manager for Newry Town.

20/3/99Town Slip At this crutial stage of the season, Newry have so-far failed to proove themselves with their mid-week draw with Omagh Town and today's defeat by second placed Linfield. Two goal from Linfield's Furguson overpowered the Newry defence as the team could only salvage one goal back after a great through ball from Larkin to Rutherford was crossed into the box and chested into the net by Trevor Smith who was subsequently shown the red card for talking back to the referee. Final score, Newry 1-2 Linfield.

13/2/99Major blow leaves Newry with an upHill struggle Portadown proved themselves a premiership outfit this week despite transfer listing three of their top players. The opening goal for the Ports came after 35 minutes from Philip Major and the second, a 25 yard lob, only nine minutes later from Dwyer Hill.
A 30-yard strike from Alan Hall in the second half wasn't enough to save face.
NEWRY; McKewon, Drake, Scappaticci (Larkin 63), McDonnell, McLean, Kenny, Tumilty, Hall, Shiels (Martin 85), Gorman (Kane 68), Rutherford

9/2/99Mid Ulster Exit The Town exited the mid-ulster cup in a disappointing 2-0 defeat by Glenavon.

6/2/99 Super strike from Deadly Des Dessie Gorman once again proved his worth as he clinched the winning goal in today's match against Cliftonville. With Stranney injured Kevin McKeown had to step in, and step in he did in style. After a scoreless first half, the 'Hawk' was given an inch perfect pass by fellow player Gary Peebles and then side-stepped a Cliftonville defender before letting fly a gem of a shot from 25 yards into the top corner leaving the Cliftonville keeper no chance. Final result Newry 1-0 Cliftonville.

6/2/99 Suspension Alan Byrne today was given a four match suspension due to an abundance of yellow cards.

6/2/99 Minutes Silence At today's match against Cliftonville, a minutes silence was observed as a mark of respect for John Kenny's father who passed away last night. To the Kenny family we offer our deepest sympathy.

30/1/99 No score draw Newry played Ballymena today in a scrappy fairly uneventful match. Despite a few good Newry runs, nothing could be salvaged. Both teams share the points as the end result was nil-nil.

23/1/99 Draw with Crusaders In a Newry dominant Bass Irish Cup game today, a draw seemed a very unlucky result. The 30th minute goal by Crawford McCray only made Newry more determined. After many excellent John Kenny runs and shots, one of the set ups followed through as the ball landed at Sammy Shiels who rounded two Crus men to strike home in the 49th minute. The replay will be on Tuesday night.

16/1/99 Victory The Town today came out of the sleet and snow with three points today after a one nil win over Coleraine. In freezing temperatures Coleraine battled but to no avail, creating many chances they failed to get onto the score-sheet. But Newry the hunt in the 32nd minute when Newry's Mark Rutherford supplied a powerful cross which was met by the Hawk who pounced on goalkeeper Lamont with a terrific header. Final result Newry Town 1-0 Coleraine.

16/1/99 Good Luck Chris Newry midfielder Chris Coffey moved to Larne on Friday. He is on a two month loan.

9/1/99On Transfer List It has been revealed that Town players Barry Tumilty and Paul Evans have been put on the transfer list.

9/1/99 Aston Villa interested There is a possibility that English Premiership club Aston Villa are interested in buying Newry goalkeeper Paul Stranney. Senior Villa officials were present at the Glenavon (2-1-99) to watch him play, unfortunately Stranney was playing on that occasion.

9/1/99 Cruising Ahead Crusaders were victors in todays match with a 3-2 win over Newry.

2/1/99 Draw with Glenavon Newry travelled to Lurgan to face Glenavon in the second game of the New Year. With a match of equal skill by both teams a draw seemed the only fair result. A Gavin Arthur goal in the 32nd minute took Newry by surprise. But after the break Newry was much stronger and so dominated the second half. In the 75th minute substitute Sammy Shiels equalised with a classic shot which baffled keeper O'Neill. Final result, Newry 1-1 Glenavon.

1/1/99New Year's Revolution Newry Town today commenced their New Year's revolution with a win over second placed Linfield. With a goal from Scott - Gary Peebles- in the 44th second, Linfield were knocked down repeatedly by a strong Newry squad. A goal by Linfield's Chris Morgan did not deter the team who battled on to pick up three points with a goal in the closing minutes by Sammy Shiels. The match was not only a success for the team but also for the club as there was an outstanding support and also a great atmosphere. Final result, Newry 2-1 Linfield.

26/12/98 Omagh Match Postponed Due to today's storm the pitch at Omagh has lost electricity and was also water logged therefore today's Newry match has been postponed until such time as the pitch it playable.

12/12/98 Newry Slip Newry lost today at the Showgrounds to a strong Portadown side. Newry took the lead early in the first half with a goal from Adrian Larkin, but this was against the run of play and Portadown equalised at the end of the first half from Miller. Early in the second half Miller again hit the target. Newry struggled throughout the second half and couldn't manage to recover the game. The Town now slip to fourth in the league and could slip further if they don't beat Linfield at the Showground on New Years Day.

5/12/98 Back On Track Facing tight odds due to the absence of key figures Paul Stranney, Dessie Gorman, Stuart McClean and John Kenny Newry today refocused themselves on their European goal today when they put up a brave fight at the Showgrounds against Glenavon. The match was delayed for eight minutes when Newry players were instructed to change into their away strip due to a colour clash. The fist half was filled with opportunities for both Newry and Glenavon but none could be exploited. Kevin McKeown was standing in for the injured Paul Stranney and the mid-week three month loan Stephen Mills from Larne. Despite his recent groin injury, McKeown pulled off two excellent saves in the first half: the first from Gavin Arthur who curled the ball around the Newry wall. McKeown raced across the goal line but the gentlest of touches was all that was required to save the shot. Again McKeown threw himself along the goal line to stop an almost certain goal from Alan Ewing. The second half showed pure skill by Newry who were determined to regain their third place spot. Arguably the best goal of the season was hit in the 57th minute by Paul Evans. Racing up the wing from the Glenavon half he struck a magnificent left footer which baffled keeper Dermott O'Neill and shattered the top corner netting. The rest of the game showed great determination but reaped no further rewards. The final scoreline being Newry 1-0 Glenavon.

2/12/98On Loan Today Newry signed Stephen Mills on a three month loan from Larne to fill the gap created by the injured Paul Stranney and Kevin McKeown.

28/11/98Unlucky defeat Newry today lost their lifeline when Paul Stranney's injury from the mid-week Glentoran match flared up disabling him from playing. Kevin Mc Keown could not be called into the squad as he has not yet recovered from his groin strain. Kilkeel reserve John Sloan was called in on short notice to fill the post. During the game he pulled off some excellent saves including an excellent drive from Crawford McCrae. Unfortunately Sloan was unable to stop two of his shots which lead to a two nil defeat for Newry.

28/11/98Robbie Casey Robbie Casey (Portadown)could be coming to Newry at the end of the season for an undisclosed sum to strengthen the midfield.

28/11/98Watford looking Stranney Watford are keeping an eye out for the currently injured goalkeeper Paul Stranney. It is not yet known how Stranney has reacted to the news.

28/11/98Super League A new twelve club super league could become the next thing in Irish football. Hopefully this should attract the crowds and the cash to Newry Town.

21/11/98Newry draw BallymenaBallymena played in Newry in a very windy and cold Showgrounds today. Throughout the first half Ballymena kept the most possession and almost all of the attempts at goal. Newry had Paul Stranney to thank for keeping Newry level although in the 18th minute Ballymena were presented with an open goal but Glen Hunter could not keep their cool and blasted it well over the bar. There is no doubt that the best player on the day was Banbridge man Tony Scappaticci. He had his head shaved on the previous night and raised £700 for Children in Need. His spectacular performance foiled the desperate attempts of Ballymena who would be one place behind Newry if they had won. Newry dominated the second half but unfortunately they were unable to create the opportunities they needed to slip into second place in the league. Final result at the showgrounds, Newry Town 0-0 Ballymena United.

21/9/98Robbie CaseyThere is a strong possibility that Portadown's Robbie Casey will be coming to Newry when his contract expires at the end of the season.

21/9/98Night @ the racesIt is expected that Newry Town Supporter's Club will be running a night at the races in late January 1999. It will be held in the Town Bar.

14/11/98Newry shatter Glentoran (3-1)Newry Town fans were ecstatic after tearing apart the league leaders Glentoran. With the Glentoran opening goal by Justin McBride at 37 seconds the Town squad were shaken but not stirred. 19 year old Adrian Larkin battled past 3 Glen men to supply a wonderful through ball to the Dundalk Hawk who knocked a right footer into the arms of Glentoran keeper Wayne Russell. He could not hold it. Fate landed at the Hawk's left foot which did not fail him, Newry were back on level terms. A draw would not satisfy the Town who have never lost an away match this season and who also have not lost a match in the last eight games. Despite the rally of the Glens in the first half, none of them could better Newry keeper Paul Stranney who saved some rocket shots from Justin McBride. In the 52nd minute, Newry demonstrated their undaunted competence when Larkin crossed a ball to the Hawk who finished the performance with a deadly accurate header, Dessie's 17th of the season. Glentoran fans where silenced in the 60th minute as Newry decided to stop toying with Glentoran and give them a demonstration of their mastery: a long ball from Larkin met the Hawk who fed it through to the Sligo man John Kenny who controlled the ball, observed the situation and then clobbered an 18 yard shot which curled round the keeper to put the icing on the cake for Newry Town. Kenny had to come off at the 74th minute because of his asthma. After the match Alan Byrne revealed the secret of the historic win, "We simply were not scared of them". The final result Newry 3-1Glentoran.

14/11/98Table Quiz in Town BarThe Newry Town Supporter's Club have organised a fund raising table quiz which will be held in the Town Bar on the 4th of December at 9pm. Everyone is welcome and for more information contact the Showgrounds at the number given on the committee page.

12/11/98Gold Cup fixture The draw for the Nationwide Gold Cup quarter finals took place today. It has been announced that Newry Town will face Glentoran at the Showgrounds on Tuesday 24 November at 7:30 pm.

7/11/98Draw with Coleraine A mediocre first half saw Newry dominating over a beleaguered Coleraine defence. The windy conditions caused havoc, however Newry managed a few shots on goal. All the play was with John Kenny racing down the wing to supply balls to the box. This paid dividends in the 24th minute when Dessie Gorman got on the end of a superb Kenny cross heading past the keeper and leaving him with no chance of a save. The second half saw an improved performance from Coleraine however Newry still dominated the run of play. With ten minutes remaining English scrambled home a poor goal for the visitors leaving the game 1-1.

7/11/98Condemnation of Abusive language Chairman, Joe Rice, has issued his condemnation of recent abusive singing and slogans at matches. Writing in the club programme he also revealed that two local families have stopped attending matches for this reason.

7/11/98Gold Cup fixture Should Newry win the mid-week Gold Cup fixture with Limavady on Tuesday they should enter the quarter finals of the competition.

6/11/98McKeown Injured Scottish-based Newry Goalkeeper Kevin McKeown suffered a groin strain during a recent reserve match. It is not known how long he will be out for, but this injury leaves Paul Stranney with no competition for the keepers spot.

31/10/98Superb Match All RoundToday, one of the most skilful games Newry has been engaged in ever was played. With all due credit to Portadown they played an excellent match with two excellent goals, but they couldn't compete with Newry who displayed some absolutely marvellous shooting skill. The game was opened when Arkins headed in a corner at the 38th minute. Newry were not disheartened and in the 65th minute The Dundalk Hawk Dessie Gorman finished a superb Adrian Larkin through ball. German's 14th goal of the season. Arkins did not like that and so headed in another. With 4 minutes to go Barry Tumilty equalised with a superb dipping long range shot. With 45 seconds to go Gorman's corner was headed in by Alan Byrne. A stunning match all round and full credit to both teams. Final score 3-2.

28/10/98Newry 4-2 DungannonIn the Gold Cup at a wet and windy Strangmore Park Newry outclassed the division 1 team with their competent skill and strength.

It started off to be a very exciting match but died down midway into the first half. It was the Hawk who started the rout by finishing an excellent Adrian Larkin cross. By half time the score was 2-0 and the provider for the first goal did not disappoint for a spectacular second. In the second half Kenny finished a cross from Gorman to make it 3-0. Dungannon retrieved a goal through an O.G. from Gary Peebles and Newry conceded a second when goal keeper dropped the wet ball. Newry busted a fourth through with an Andy Myler penalty to finish the game in a well deserved victory for the Town.

24/10/98Debutant Sheils Shines Newry rampaged Cliftonville today with a 4-1 win in miserable conditions. The football was much less miserable than the weather and temperatures reached boiling point towards the end of the game. Despite going a goal down in the second minute Newry held strong to go into half time at 1-3. The Newry goals came from Trevor Smith, John Kenny and new boy Sammy Shiels. Kenny rounded the game up again with a 73rd minute goal. The Cliftonville players got hot under the collar and several yellow cards were produced in the dying minutes. Best Performances (Author's Choice): John Kenny, Sammy Shiels, John McDonnell.

23/10/98Mc Parland on loan Newry today gave Kieran Mc Parland to Larne on loan until the end of the season.

23/10/98New Signing Newry today signed 32 year old striker Sammy Shiels from Coleraine on a years free contract. He will make his debut for the Town tomorrow against Cliftonville.

2/10/98Supporters Club lose chairman Vincent Johnston today stepped down from his position as Newry Town supporters club chairman. His position has been filled by Patrick Sloane.

18/10/98Town Bar Dart Team The Town Bar has now assembled a dart team which has already shown signs that it will be as successful as its football team. Some key members of the dart team are; Sandy Martin, Joe Fitzpatrick, Tom Fletcher, Jim Martin.

3/10/98Glenavon at mercy to Deadly DesDessie Gorman didn't disappoint the Newry fans at Mourneview today when he fired home a 27th minute penalty after young Adrian Larkin had been brought down in the box. Larkin then committed 2 bookable offences in the second half with a red card displayed. But despite this, a ten man Newry raced into a 2-0 lead when Deadly Des flicked one home at close range in the 64th minute after a free kick, but poor Newry defending allowed Michael Cashe to knock one past Paul Stranney, who earlier demonstrated his skill with a superior double save from Stephen Baxter and then Tony Grant. The final score, 2-1 to Newry.

26/9/98 Draw with Crusaders A disappointing match which failed to live up to expectations. Newry failed to sustain recent form and a re-shuffle of the team, after the 3-0 defeat by Linfield, failed to pay dividends. Both teams struck the woodwork in the first half, and Crusaders again in the second half. Frantic attacks by Newry nearly paid off but in the final minute Chris Coffey headed wide a sitter, disappointing the home crowd. The match ended scoreless.

26/9/98 New signing Adrian Larkin signed from Banbridge. Aiden set up one of the few decent attacks in his debut game against Crusaders.

21/9/98Town Bar up and running Newry Town have bought a premises in Hill Street which will aid finance in the club. It has already proven to be a worth while investment.

19/9/98Newry Res TriumphantNewry Town Reserves 4-1 Mountnorris. This was an excellent win over a tremendous team.

12/9/98Newry 2-2 ColeraineNewry today picked up another point when they played away to Coleraine, the final score was two a piece with the final goal scored was six minutes from time and scored by Newry.

7/9/98Death of Charles Mc DonaldShortly before 21:30 tonight Charles Mc Donald and his wife Florence died in a tragic car crash on the Newry by-pass. Charlie was a dedicated and life-long member of Newry Town and will be remembered fondly by all who knew him. To all concerned especially the Mc Donald and Martin families the Newry Town supporters and members express our deepest sympathies.

9/9/98New SigningThe Town today signed a new striker by the name of Adrian Larkin, the local 19 year old player is set to make a strong impression when he gets started.

8/9/98Gold Cup Nationwide Gold Cup holders Glenavon went down at the Showgrounds by 3 goals to 2. Newry started off well with a well struck goal by John White. Newry with another good home support took a two goal lead through Dessie Gorman who clipped a superb free kick from 25 yards at the 31st minute and celebrated by the home terraces with the local support. Glenavon's Stephen Baxter gave them a goal back but Newry's inform striker Dessie Gorman discharged a well targeted inoculation scorching the back of the Glenavon net. The second half saw Glenavon retrieve a goal due to Tony Grant but nothing could overcome a strong Newry side. As the Town team came off at the final whistle they were given an outstanding novation by the local and loyal Newry supporters. 

5/9/98Quality match puts end to Newry roll Newry looked threatening in the first half of todays match and were rewarded when Dessie Gorman was brought down in the box. Peebles converted the penalty and minutes later the Glens were reduced to 10 men following verbal abuse by John Devine to John Kenny. Being reduced to ten men only made the Glens more determined and they stormed into the second half with a scrambled own goal by Campbell and a late penalty by McBride to leave the score at 2-1 . The Newry fans were not disheartened and continued to chant and sing after the final whistle.

2/9/98Newry on three match rollShamrock Park was the venue for Newry and Portadown's first meeting of the new season and on a night where the weather was atrocious, Newry came out winners by 3 goals to 2. As the home side took the lead it looked as if Newry's three points were gone but a brilliant second half display by the Town turned it into a memorable win and another three points in the Premier League. Vanny Arlerns scored a goal for the Ports after 10 minutes but after half time the game turned when Portadown centre midfielder Robert Casey got sent off for a disgraceful tackle on Newry's Trevor Smith. This resulted in a free kick for Newry which was taken by Anthony Mitchell, it dumbfounded the goalkeeper as it hit the back of the net like a flash of lightning. Not long after the equaliser, Johnny Kenny ran up the wing and crossed the ball to Newry's in-form striker Dessie Gorman and another goal rattled past the keeper to make the sides level with one goal a piece. Newry got their third goal through the Portadown defence with Andy Myler as the fans chanted "EASY!". Portadown managed to pull a goal back through by Paul Miller who scored in injury time but it wasn't enough to stop Newry getting a deserved three points.

28/8/98Transfer News David Campbell was signed today on a months loan from Shelbourne, and will have his first game agianst Cliftonville at the Showgrounds. Also Bangor have secured the services of 27 year old Lurgan man Michael Crowe. Anthony Mitchell has been signed for two years and scored a wonderful goal at Portadown on Tuesday.

28/8/98Reds get the Blues Like Linfield Champions Cliftonville came to Newry expecting a fairly easy match from the newcomers, but suffered a rude awakening from the Frontier Town. Newrys pre-season fitness training is starting to pay off as Newry clinch victory once agian in the dying moments. Three minutes from the end John Kenny scored the winner for Newry to leave the match at 2-1 for the home side.

26/8/98New Stand Fund As a result of the record gates at the Linfield and Man Utd matches the fund for the building of the new stand is now in excess of £30,000.

24/8/98Newry overcome MAN UTDTonight Newry Town overcame a Man Utd select in an enthralling and titanic struggle to the finish. Newry opened the scoring after 3 minutes with a scrambled goal from Dessie 'The Hawk' Gorman. After another goal from Gorman, Man Utd were left reeling but were lucky to claw back a goal from Paul Teather shortly before the interval. A minute into the second half Eric Nevland was fouled in the box and Phil Mulryne converted the penalty. This left the match on a knife edge. Alan Hall then finished a terrific Newry move initiated by Alan Byrne who scuttled past three defenders in the 59th minute. Six minutes later the Showgrounds was in turmoil once again when Chris Casper equalised for United with a header from a Terry Cooke corner. After clearing from a Man Utd attack substitute Andy Myler battled his way to the fore to hammer home Newry's winning goal in the 74th minute, to leave the United squad devastated at a 4-3 loss. Other substitutes for Newry included Chris Coffey and Rossa Martin.

22/8/98Omagh match postponed Due to the terrible tragedy in Omagh last week the scheduled Omagh Town v Newry Town match will be postponed until the 15th of September.

14/8/98Historic Win Over Linfield In the first game of the new season Newry came out victors over hot favourites for the premiership, Linfield. Newry as the underdogs knew they would have a battle on their hands but ex-Linfield striker Dessie Gorman had other things in mind. The 7,000 plus crowd witnessed a long and arduous first half. Gorman was brought down in the box but the referee ignored it. After 59 minutes justice was done when Paul Evans was hacked down in the Linfield box. Gorman converted the penalty and with glorious celebration set the Newry fans wild. Linfield had an equalising penalty after a dive by Davy Larmour. Beatty converted the penalty to leave the sides level. It looked as if Newry were to earn a credible draw, but 'The Hawk' swooped again after 84 minutes to snatch a win and hush the chants of the Linfield supporters. After the match David Jeffrey, like his supporters, looked distraught and close to tears.

10/8/98Stranney Signs It has been announced that Newry have signed on-loan Glenavon Goalkeeper Paul Stranney on a two year contract. This provides tough competition for the goalkeeping spot as Newry have also signed Kevin McKeown from Ayr United. Other signings include Barry Tumelty from Glenavon, Alan Byrne from Linfield and Stuart McLean from Linfield.

6/8/98Pre-season Friendlies In this years pre-season friendlies Newry lost all four matches. The results were Newry 1, Tranmere 2; Newry 0, Dundalk 1; Newry 1, Shelbourne 2; Newry 0, Monaghan 3. 

18/4/98Newry Promoted On the day that Cliftonville won the Premiership for the first time in 88 years, Newry found themselves contemplating life in the Premiership and possibly Europe should Joe Rice's prediction of Europe in three seasons come true. Newry found a draw with Distillery was enough to secure promotion. A twenty-fourth minute goal from Stuart McClean was equalised after 67 minutes by Dykes to give Distillery a well deserved draw. Afterwards Newry Town Director of Football Trevor Anderson said he was looking forward to getting into the Premier again, but that the team would need to strengthen indicating that two or three new signings were on the way. He didn't indicate whether Todays goalscorer McClean (on loan) would be included.
After the game Harry Wallace, Irish League Secretary, presented the cup to the team captain Tony Scappaticci.It has taken NTFC 75 years to win an Irish League senior league trophy since they were formed back in 1923.


Celebrations as the cup is presented to Tony Scappaticci

The First Division Cup
The Smirnoff Division One Trophy in the Social Club

15/4/98Newry Stuff Larne The Town last night stuffed Larne 6-0 at Inver Park to go 9 points clear of Bangor at the top of Division One.Bangor still have three games remaining, just one more than Newry, which means that promotion for Newry is merely a formality. The Town could be stopped but only if Bangor were to overcome a 21 goal difference one point clear of Newry at the top. Newry however still have one game in hand against Limavady.

4/2/98Smith signs from PortadownIt was revealed today that Portadown striker / sweeper Trevor Smith will become a Newry Town player in the next few days. It is no shock that Trevor is leaving Portadown. It was obvious from the deplorable treatment he received from the Portadown management that he did not fit in to the picture at Shamrock Park. Time and time again, despite excellent performances while on the field, Trevor was confined to the subs bench. In the Belfast Telegraph tonight (Wed 4th February) manager Ronnie McFall described Trevor as a "quality player" when asked about the yet undecided transfer fee.

31/1/98Newry Stay Top after Tony Jones, a midweek signing from Dundela, scored late on for Ballyclare to make it Ballyclare 2 Newry 2. However Newry remain two points clear of Bangor, with a game in hand! The Newry scorers were Michael Crowe and Andy Milner <

Newry Win NTFC win 3-0 at Larne with goals from Paul Evans,Neil Watson and Dessie Gorman

Newry Top tableNewry Town this week topped the Irish League Division One table and are on the road to promotion.

© 2000 Jonny McCullagh