Hi °C | Lo °C Portadown 1 Donegal Celtic 0: Donegal Celtic’s “internal politics” came under fire from departing boss Declan McGreevy as the recently-installed boss bade farewell to his position with a narrow defeat to Portadown at Shamrock Park.
Appointed without the requisite coaching qualifications, McGreevy was forced to step aside to make way for the return of Pat McAllister this weekend but, speaking before his exit, he reflected on the turmoil the club has experienced in the last 10 months.
“I’m simply not interested in the internal politics of the club,” he said.
“I’m only interested in what happens on the field and this squad deserves better than all what’s happening around them.
“They also deserved at least a point from Portadown. We were on top at the start of the second-half where their keeper (David Miskelly) pulled off a wonder save from Conor Downey and that turned the match.
“I’m so proud of the way we played and I wish those internal politics would disappear.”
DC’s keeper John Connolly was an even bigger hero, making at least five super saves — three of them from Ports’ frustrated striker Darren Murray — before big centre-half Brian Gartland finally broke the deadlock 18 minutes from time.
The central defender admitted that he hadn't been at his best for the first five or six matches this season but added: “I've found my feet for the last few matches.
“We've conceded just two goals in the last five games, including four clean sheets — it adds up to 10 points from four league matches, plus a League Cup victory at Bangor. Our season is on the up.”
Ports manager Ronnie McFall said: “We did not play well. Celtic came to frustrate and spoil us and they almost succeeded. Their keeper pulled off several good saves and Murray struck a post.
“The ball just didn’t fall for us, but we landed all three points and that’s what it all about.
“At the end of the day, we were the better side.”
