Aghagallon announce shock departure of management team just weeks after Antrim SFC final defeat

Aghagallon are on the lookout for a new management team following the surprise departure of Audi Kelly and his assistant Darnell Parkinson after just one year in charge.

The duo led St Mary’s to the Antrim SFC final for the second successive season, but they suffered a narrow defeat to Cargin after extra-time in Corrigan Park.

In 2021, Aghagallon reached their first ever senior county final before suffering a heavy loss to Creggan.

Read more: Antrim star Orlaith Prenter’s remarkable scoring feat sees Moneyglass reach historic Ulster Club Final

However, they were eight points up early in the second half of this year’s final following Ruairi McCann's second goal before being reeled in by Cargin.

Less than a week after losing the Antrim SFC final, St Mary’s were forced to play Ballymena in the promotion/relegation play-off and, despite winning the game to retain their Division One status, the club were annoyed at the decision to play the game so soon after the county final.

Audi Kelly pictured ahead of the Antrim SFC final between Aghagallon and Cargin at Corrigan Park at the start of October (©INPHO/Declan Roughan)

In a statement, Aghagallon thanked Kelly and Parkinson for their contribution over the last year.

“Following discussions over the weekend with our Senior Football Management of Audi Kelly and Darnell Parkinson they have decided to step away from that role.

“The club would like to acknowledge the commitment and professionalism Audi and Darnell gave to the role over the last 12 months which culminated in a Senior Championship Final appearance.

“We wish Audi and Darnell all the very best for the future and look forward to welcoming everyone back to Pairc na Gael in the near future.

“The club will now begin a process to identify a new senior football management team, to help further the progress we have made over the last number of years.”

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