First Team Coach Norman Kelly is leaving his role at Mourneview Park due to family and work commitments. “When Norman agreed at short notice to come on board it was understood that it would only be until the end of the season,” Gary Hamilton explained. “He’s been very honest and loyal and I want to thank him for all his help in getting us into Europe and in winning the Irish Cup.”

Goalkeeper James McGrath’s work has expanded it’s operations into the south of Ireland as far as Cork and his increased work commitments would have prevented him training regularly so he’s decided to drop back to Junior football again when he doesn’t have to train two night’s a week.

James McGrath saves a Joe Gormley penalty. Picture by Darren Kidd / Press Eye

“‘Fudge’ is a great lad with a brilliant attitude. He played a big part in our 2014 Irish Cup success and last season his performances in that late run of wins was the main reason we qualified for Europe,” Gary told us. “He was on honeymoon at the start of this season but, if he’d been available, he would have played in the opening league game. Jonny Tuffey got his chance and his performances have seen him keep the shirt. I’m gutted to lose Fudge but I’ll hopefully have a replacement within the next few days,” the Glenavon manager concluded.