Gerard McGranaghan to step down as Kilmacrennan Celtic manager

Gerard McGranaghan says Saturday’s Premier Division play-off win over Bonagee United was his last game as Kilmacrennan Celtic manager.

Kilmacrennan won the Premier Division crown thanks to a 3-1 win with Paul Bradley, Matthew McLaughlin and Philip Buchanan on target.

After three years at the helm, McGranaghan insists that he’s bidding adieu.

“I’m happy to bow out at that,” McGranaghan said.

“That’s three years done. I felt there was a good bunch of lads here and I’m happy with where we have got to.

‘It feels like two-in a row’ - Kilmacrennan boss McGranaghan

A play-off win over Bonagee secured what is officially Kilmacrennan Celtic's first Premier Division title since 2010 - but by the Lurgy they say different.

“As Kilmacrennan manager, that’s my last game anyway.”

In the 2018/19 season, Kilmac’ were pipped to the silverware by two points by Castlefin Celtic and last year’s title went to Cappry Rovers after a long and protracted appeals process that went all the way to the Court of Arbitration.

Kilmac’ have some promising youngsters emerging and the club is also developing a new pitch, but McGranaghan insists he won’t be in the dugout next season.

McGranaghan said: “There is a lot of commitment, you’re out a couple of nights every week and the weekends are gone too. It’s a commitment for every player in fairness.

“You have to want to be there to enjoy it and that’s one thing I was doing.”