Club statement

Following the Irish Premiership matches on Saturday Ballinamallard United FC have issued the following statement:

Club Chairman Gordon Lee commented, “everyone involved with the Club are extremely disappointed at the relegation from the Irish Premiership. Indeed that disappointment goes much further than Ballinamallard; Club representatives have received very supportive and appreciative messages from throughout Co Fermanagh, other parts of Northern Ireland and beyond. The messages have come from throughout those involved in football, but also from the wider community.

“We have enjoyed six great seasons in the Irish Premiership, the progress of football to this level and the wider recognition that it brought for Fermanagh is immense. The Club sincerely thank all of the players, managers, coaching staff, sponsors, supporters and volunteers who helped us reach the top level and sustain us there for that period. In the last number of weeks of the season the managerial team and players made a huge effort to keep our Premiership status alive, but in the end it is narrow margins that make the difference".

“We wish to assure everyone that the Club is determined not to retreat from its long-standing positive and progressive attitude to delivering top level football in Fermanagh. Of course, moving into the Championship brings new challenges, but we will assess our options and strategies, some of which are immediate and some long-term, and we will address the issues that require attention".

“Since Saturday Club representatives have spoken to Harry McConkey and we intend to have further discussions during the course of this week. We have also spoken to the current First team playing squad about our future plans and I trust that those who have been loyal to our club, some for many years, will continue to recognise the journey that we have made together and are determined to continue with".

Harry McConkey remarked, “the team put in a huge effort since I took charge six weeks ago, I cannot fault them for their commitment. While it was personally a huge challenge for me, I am very aware that it has also be a trying time for the Club".

“I appreciate the support that I have received from inside the Club, around the Club and outside the Club in the past six weeks. I have spoken to Club representatives, and will now be taking some time to consider options and will have further discussions this week.”

ENDS

Note – No further comment will issue from the Club or Harry McConkey until further notice.