Derry boss Kenny linked to Pat’s post as Kenna resigns

THE hunt is on for a new manager at St Patrick’s Athletic after Jeff Kenna resigned yesterday, although the club is unlikely to appoint a full-time replacement until the end of this season.

Current Derry boss Stephen Kenny is one name already being linked with the Richmond Park post which comes vacant after Pats’ season hit a new low with their exit from the FAI Cup at the hands of Waterford United.

The club’s Europa League heroics this summer now seem to belong to another era, with former Irish international Kenna paying the price for a dismal season on the domestic front.

In a statement released before last night’s game against his former club Galway United, Kenna said: “I’d like to thank the board, the fans and the players for their support throughout what has been a very difficult season for everyone.

“The season has certainly had its ups and downs, with the European results the obvious highlight for me. I have given my all to the job but I believe now is the right time to leave.

“It hasn’t been an easy decision but I look forward to taking on a fresh challenge in the game. I have thoroughly enjoyed the experience at St Pat’s and would like to wish everyone connected to the club the very best of luck.”

Back on the pitch, Shamrock Rovers, still chasing leaders Bohemians, will be looking to bounce back from their own cup shocker against Sporting Fingal when they take on Bray Wanderers at Tallaght Stadium (kick off 7pm).

Manager Michael O’Neill said: “It won’t be difficult to lift everyone after Tuesday’s defeat against Sporting Fingal. It’s the league championship — it’s the competition that every football player wants to win. We’ve nine games to go and it’s all to play for.”

By contrast, Bray boss Eddie Gormley has seen his side qualify for the cup semis even as they continue to struggle in the league.

“We are delighted to have qualified for the semi-finals,” he said. “But we will now put that to bed and focus on our league position and try to get ourselves out of it. We will give it our best shot.”

Meanwhile, Setanta Cup action also resumes today with holders Cork City visiting the Showgrounds to play Sligo Rovers in Group One (kick-off 5.30pm). This is Sligo’s debut in the competition while City already have a win over Cliftonville under their belts.

Manager Paul Doolin is facing a defensive headache this evening. Kevin Long (calf), Dan Murray (calf) and Neal Horgan (knee) are all ruled out through injury, while Cillian Lordan is a doubt having missed training due to a chest infection. Midfielder Joe Gamble is a doubt, as he is struggling with a knee injury.

Doolin said: “The main thing for us in the game is not to pick up any more injuries and hopefully we can pick up a result and maintain our good position in the group.”

In Group Two, Coleraine are at home to Glentoran (3pm).