Arkins handed boss role as Ports start to rebuild

Portadown directors have taken steps this week in a bid to bring stability back to Shamrock Park.
Vinny Arkins. Pic by PressEye Ltd.Vinny Arkins. Pic by PressEye Ltd.
Vinny Arkins. Pic by PressEye Ltd.

The loss of a double appeal against Irish Football Association disciplinary measures sparked calls for resignations, angry matchday scenes and a decision by manager Pat McGibbon to step down.

However, a meeting on Tuesday night revealed additions to the Board of Directors, an invitation to add a supporters’ representative to the structure and Vinny Arkins’ position as temporary manager.

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Arkins stepped into the role of interim boss last weekend and directors hope news the club legend will handle first-team affairs can bolster morale going into tomorrow’s (Saturday’s) trip to Ballinamallard United.

Coach Trevor Williamson and captain Keith O’Hara will provide assistance to Arkins, with the latter lacking the coaching qualifications to hold the role on a permanent basis.

“Vinny has accepted the temporary position and we will use the 60-day window to move forward with the management process,” said the directors in a joint statement. “Following a selection process of potential candidates, Paul Jackson and Peter Hunniford are expected to be finalised on the Board of Directors within days, with both long-standing fans who can bring expertise in business and finance.

“With a view to progress, we want to add fresh blood.

“We will contact supporters’ clubs and ask for a nomination to take up an annual associate director role on the Board.

“This marks the first phase in restructuring developed from the summer, with the aim of moving forward together thanks to strength in numbers.”

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