DEPARTURES AT THE TOWN

It appears that Malone’s son, Dale, defenders Neil King and Mark Taggart and January signing David Hawthorne - who left Loughgall in January to join the Town - have all gone to join their former boss at Lakeview Park.

The news will come as a blow to the club but Town Chairman Andrew Cully was gracious in conceding that the players had left.

“I’m disappointed but not surprised really,” said Mr Cully. “I’m always sad to see players go because when you have worked with them over a period of time they become part of the club and you have an affinity to them.

“However players come and go in football and soon we will have people in to replace those who have gone.”

The Town are still searching for the man to take over from Malone, who won the club their first trophy in 24 years in January when they beat Rathfriland Rangers in the final of the Bob Radcliffe Cup.

Mr Cully was keeping his cards close to his chest when pressed over who the new manager may be and when they would be appointed.

“We are aware that it is imperative that a decision is made soon,” he admitted.

“But we want to make a decision that will be the right one for Banbridge Town Football Club. At the end of the day we have struggled in the league for the last couple of years and we want someone with the right credentials to push us on.

“We are taking the time to do what’s right for the club and while I am aware that a few players have left a new manager will bring in his own men. As well as that he will want to be selective and keep some of the current crop on board.”

“We’ve had a very good interest in the position and I would like to thank all those who contacted us about the manager’s job.”

n BANBRIDGE Town’s social club will be the host of an evening that that will entice any Manchester United fan.

The club will be showing the big Champions League final between United and Barcelona, as well as the other European Cup finals that the club have played in.

It promises to be a great night’s entertainment for all football fans. It all gets underway from 4pm with the big match live from 7.45pm.

There will be a small charge on the door on the night with a donation to be made to charity.