New boss takes over at Thorniewood
Experienced James Mckenna appointed
Thorniewood United have appointed experienced campaigner James Mckenna as their new boss, with young Keith Docherty coming in as assistant manager.
The move follows the resignation of Gerry Bonham and Stewart Easton in the aftermath of a heavy Scottish Junior Cup defeat against East Kilbride Thistle.
Mckenna, who has had experience as a manager at St Anthony’s and Shettleston, was announced by the Viewpark club on Saturday afternoon.
Training had been taken by former Albion Rovers and Clyde gaffer Jim Chapman in the fortnight following Bonham and Easton’s resignation.
Club president John Miller said: “We’re pleased to have secured the services of an experienced manager, which is what we need at the moment.
“Gerry and Stewart were just unfortunate, and we appreciate the efforts they made on behalf of the club before resigning.
“James has had experience of managing St Anthony’s and Shettleston, so that should stand us in good stead.”
United used the blank Saturday situation to stage an informal meeting with Mckenna and Docherty in the hospitality area of Robertson Park, which seemed to go quite well.
Mckenna said: “I’m looking forward to getting back into the game – my wife has been ill for the past two years, so now it’s back to football, and that’s a good sign.”
He added: “This is a good, professional club, and we’re happy to be here.
“We will need to look at ways to improve the squad and get the team up the league.”
Keith Docherty commented: “My coaching experience has been with amateur and boys’ football, so we have always said over the past two years that we would like to do something together, and now we have the chance.”
Thorniewood United currently sit bottom of the Central League First Division with just a point from eight games.