Dixie throws his hat into ring for Swifts job
DIXIE Robinson has said he is ready to help guide Dungannon out of trouble — if the club asks him.
Robinson, who managed the Swifts between 2009 and 2011, took charge of Saturday’s 0-0 draw against Ards and is likely to be back in the dugout for tomorrow’s clash against Crusaders.
Dungannon officials plan to start interviewing candidates for the manager’s job this week.
They received 20 applications before the deadline passed on Friday.
Robinson was coy when asked if he had applied, saying: “I would be telling lies if I said I didn’t enjoy my day. If I can help out in any capacity and I’m wanted, I suppose I’m here.”
Asked if he would like to stay on, he added: “I’ll be at the club, that’s for sure. In what capacity, I don’t know.
“We’ll see what it brings. The club will look at the candidates.”
The game was a poor affair, although Dungannon did create most of the chances. The best was in the 68th minute when Ryan Harpur won a penalty after being tripped by goalkeeper Sam Johnston. Harpur took the spot kick, but his effort lacked power and accuracy, and was saved.
Robinson added: “We were the better side. Unfortunately we couldn’t get the goal we deserved.”
This was Ards’ fourth clean sheet in a row after losing their first three games.
Boss Colin Nixon was pleased with the point. “It is six games unbeaten in all competitions, which is fantastic for us,” he said. DUNGANNON: Moore, Clucas, Hegarty, Armstrong, O’Rourke, Hutchinson, Harpur, Patton (Lafferty, 61 mins), Campbell, McElroy (McMullan, 80 mins), Hughes. Unused subs: Addis, Dykes, Wilson, Teggart, Lowe ARDS: Johnston, Kerr, Byers, Taylor, McClean, E McAllister (McAleenan, 81 mins), J Kelly, Cherry (Mitchell, 70 mins), Nelson, Strain (Boyd, 77 mins), M Kelly. Unused subs: McLellan, D McAllister, Tommons, Mooney. Referee: Shane Andrews (Comber)
Man of the match: Sam Johnston
Match rating: 4/10.