Owens named Limavady manager

COLERAINE FC can confirm that Paul Owens has departed the club to become first-team manager at Limavady United…

Owns returns to the Limavady Showgrounds after spending three-and-a-half years as player/manager with the Roesiders, where he won a host of trophies during his time in charge.

However, he would join the backroom staff at the Coleraine Showgrounds at the beginning of the 2018/19 campaign and played a crucial part as the Bannsiders secured European football and the BetMcLean Cup.

The managerial position became vacant again at United last week and Owens returns to the dugout as the Roesiders look to kick-on in the Premier Intermediate and Cup competitions.

Speaking to colerainefc.com, boss Oran Kearney admits whilst he was disappointed to lose Owens’ services, he couldn’t stand in his way as the Limavady native takes charge of his hometown club.

“We are obviously disappointed to lose Paul but we fully respect his decision,” he said.

“To be honest, we didn’t see it coming but once Paul spoke with Limavady he was blown away by their ambition and it was hard for him to turn down.

“Paul played under me and then developed into a top class coach and his input has grown massively.

“He has been someone who has been vital on a matchday and on training nights.

“Sometimes you have to acknowledge that there’s more to life than football in terms of family commitments and everything else.

“We wish Paul the very best of luck.”