Kenny’s Christmas cheer at new Derry deal

DUBLINER Stephen Kenny last night signed a new two-year contract with Derry City that will keep him as supremo at the Brandywell until the end of the 2008 season.

The 34-year-old manager, previously boss at Longford Town and Bohemians, first joined Derry in August 2004. In his first months in charge, Kenny managed to steer the Candystripes away from the dreaded relegation zone.

Last season outsiders Derry won the League Cup, beating UCD 2-1 in the final, and finished runners-up to champions Cork City in the eircom League Premier Division. They were also beaten 1-0 by Cork in the Carlsberg FAI Cup semi-finals at Turner's Cross.