Daily Mirror (Northern Ireland)
Someone led us Down the garden path
MARK POLAND says Down were “led down the garden path for 12 weeks” after their lengthy search for a new manager came to an end last night. The Mournemen unveiled double All-ireland winning county legend James Mccartan as their new boss at a county board meeting yesterday evening, with former Armagh star Aidan O’rourke (inset) in as coach. A 2010 All-ireland finalist, Poland – who was part of the selection committee charged with finding Paddy Tally’s replacement – didn’t indicate who he was talking about.
But Donegal All-ireland winning manager, Jim Mcguinness was heavily linked with the post a fortnight ago.
However, Mcguinness insisted he was “very much focused on soccer,” and waiting until the end of the season to plan his next move.
“We were led down the garden path for 12 weeks,” Poland said.
“It wasn’t nice now, let me tell you. It put the pressure on over the last couple of weeks but we finally got there.”
This will be Mccartan’s second stint in charge of the Down seniors, having served five years in his first spell (2010-14).
He led the Mournemen to a shock 2010 All-ireland final appearance.
Mccartan later went on to manage the Down minors from 2016 to 2020.
Longstone club man Poland believes “a slight change in culture” is required in Down football as the county continue their long search for senior Championship silverware.
Down’s last Ulster and All-ireland titles came back in 1994, but an Ulster under-20 title win this year has fuelled fresh hope in the county.
“James is very quiet and unassuming. He has the red and black in his heart,” said Poland.
“He is really passionate about Down. I worked with him with the minors. It didn’t really bring success but I learned an awful lot.
“I feel it is a steady appointment for where we are at the minute.
“You have a top class coach in Aidan coming in as well, who has the presence and character that I think this team really needs at the minute.
“Aidan is one of these types of men that will not take any prisoners. I think that’s what this team needs right now.”