Brayseeknew manager after Mackey exits

BRAY WANDERERS are searching for a new manager after Dave Mackey departed over the weekend.

A statement from the Seagulls said that Mackey chose to resign with Bray bottom of the table after eight straight defeats.

However, it’s understood that senior players had become disillusioned with the winter replacement for Harry Kenny.

Mackey is well liked within the game, but the 57-year-old struggled to get results in his first senior managerial job at League of Ireland level.

Bray have conceded 27 goals since a surprise scoreless draw in Dundalk on the opening night.

Friday night’s 5-0 thrashing against St Patrick’s Athletic was the final straw for Mackey, who had previously worked as U-19 manager and in a variety of backroom roles.

Bray said they “reluctantly accepted” his resignation, and had started the process of finding a new man.

The new manager faces an onerous task with the Wicklow club already six points behind second from bottom Sligo Rovers.

Paul Doolin is likely to be considered for the post, with the former Drogheda and Ireland U-19 manager open about his ambitions to return to the game.

However, he would have to weigh up if Bray are the right fit at this moment. The club’s future is wrapped up in the hierarchy’s plans to redevelop the Carlisle Grounds and move to a new base – an idea that has not been welcomed by the local council who actually own the facility.