By Shaun Casey

DESSIE Marshall has been announced as the new Aghagallon manager, with former Down football Kevin McKernan joining his ticket as a coach. The pair replace two-time All-Ireland winning manager, and fellow Down man Pete McGrath.

McGrath held the reigns at the Antrim club for three years but stepped down following their quarter-final defeat at the hands of Cargin back in September.

The St Mary’s club reached back-to-back county finals in 2021 and 2022 but have failed to get back to that stage since and are still chasing a first ever Antrim SFC title.

Marshall won an intermediate crown with the club back in 2012, rattling the net for his team as they beat Sarsfields by the minimum of margins after a replay.

McKernan, who helped the Mourne men reach the All-Ireland final back in 2010, has managed Dundalk Gaels in Louth over the past two season.

The Burren clubman has also continued to play in his club colours, holding a range of different positions, including goalkeeper, over the last few years.