Mick Kennedy has left Scottish Cup shock troops Darvel.
The Ayrshire club wrote the story of this year’s competition when they dumped Aberdeen out in the fourth round back in January. Jordan Kirkpatrick’s 19th minute strike was enough for the West of Scotland Premier Division outfit to secure the biggest result in their history and pile misery on Jim Goodwin’s side.
The Irishman survived that embarrassment, but a 6-0 hammering at Hibs days later was a step too far and he was given his jotters by Dave Cormack just 19 minutes after the full-time whistle at Easter Road. Goodwin is now back in management with Dundee United as he bids to lead the Tangerines to safety, while Kennedy has resigned from Darvel after four years at the helm.
He’s been linked with a move to Lowland League outfit East Kilbride, along with coach Simon Ferry, who recently quit as Open Goal Broomhill boss to link up with Kennedy at Recreation Park. Darvel’s chances of reaching the fifth tier were dashed after losing a playoff to east coast outfit Tranent.
Club chairman John Gall said in a statement: "Michael has been an integral part of everything at this club throughout his tenure and has poured more than just managerial duties into the mix.
"He has been an absolute joy to work alongside over the last four seasons, with memories that will last a lifetime and for that I will always be proud to call Michael a friend.
"The Club will always be the main focus for me and it saddens me that this is the end of the journey. Michael has been instrumental in leaving us with good solid foundations both in terms of infrastructure and playing squad that will continue to thrive well beyond his departure.
"I would like to thank Michael for his services and utmost professionalism shown during his time, he will always be a legend ‘doon the brae’ and wish him well for whatever the future may hold."
