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.