Soccer

Newry City part ways with manager Barry Gray

Club have won just two of their opening 10 games in the league this season

Newry City manager Barry Gray Picture: Noel Moan/Pacemaker
Newry City manager Barry Gray Picture: Noel Moan/Pacemaker (Noel Moan)

Newry City announced on Sunday afternoon that they have parted ways with manager Barry Gray.

City’s 4-1 defeat to Ards on Friday night was their fifth league defeat of the season and came a matter of days after they lost 5-1 to Dollingstown in the BetMcLean League Cup.

Former Cliftonville and Warrenpoint Town manager Gray took over at the Co Down club on New Year’s Day of this year after Gary Boyle stepped down from the position with the club rooted to the foot of the Premiership.

Gray wasn’t able to save them from relegation but hopes were high that they could mount a serious promotion challenge in the Playr-Fit Championship this season.

However, after winning only two of their opening 10 games, and conceding 23 goals, he has now parted company with the club.

It a statement released on Sunday evening, Newry City said:

“The management committee of Newry City AFC can confirm that we have parted ways with first team manager Barry Gray.

“We would like to place on record our thanks to Barry for all his hard work at the club during a difficult time both on and off the pitch.

“Barry leaves with our best wishes. A further update will follow in due course.”