Legendary GAA manager Pete McGrath begins latest…

Legendary GAA manager Pete McGrath begins latest tenure as Antrim Football Leagues resume

The Antrim Senior Football Leagues resume this Sunday and last year’s county finalists Aghagallon have another new manager at the helm for 2023.

Down legend Pete McGrath has taken over at St Mary’s following the surprise departure of Audi Kelly after last season’s Antrim SFC final loss to Cargin.

Aghagallon also lost the 2021 decider to Cargin with the-then manager Kevin Murray stepping down prior to last season.

Last term, Aghagallon came agonisingly close to winning their first senior title when Cargin battled down from being eight points down at Corrigan Park to clinch a 1-18 to 3-8 win.

McGrath, who has also managed Fermanagh and Louth as well as the Ireland International Rules team, led Down to All-Ireland SFC success in 1991 and 1994 and was most recently in charge of his native St Bronach’s Rostrevor side.

Speaking ahead of Sunday’s opening Antrim Division One clash away to Moneyglass, Antrim forward and Aghgallon star Ruairi McCann said St Mary’s are relishing the opportunity to work with McGrath this season.

“Everything has been good so far. He is a gentleman and his managerial CV is second to none,” said McCann.

“I’m looking forward to the club season too. Hopefully, we can go one step further this season.

Pete Grath led Down to All-Ireland glory in 1991 and 1994 and also had spells in charge of Fermanagh and Louth (©INPHO/Lorraine O'Sullivan)

“I’d say there’s eight teams in Antrim that are going for the same prize. It is a new start every year.

“Just because we’ve gotten to the last two finals - it means nothing come this summer. It is a fresh start and we’ve to go again.”

Aghagallon will be without their county contingent for Sunday's League opener, including McCann and goalkeeper Luke Mulholland while Adam Loughran is currently sidelined through injury while Colum Duffin won’t be available for Moneyglass.

Eunan Walsh of Aghagallon comes under pressure from Cargin's Pat Shivers and John Carron during last year's Antrim SFC final at Corrigan Park (©INPHO/Declan Roughan)

County champions Cargin begin their Division One campaign with a short trip to face Tír na nÓg while defending league champions Creggan host Rossa.

There’s a West Belfast derby at Hannahstown as Lámh Dhearg take on St John’s with St Brigid’s travelling to Aghohill while St Gall’s also enjoy home advantage against Portglenone.