Sport

Mattie McGleenan calls time on two-year stint in charge of Cavan

Mattie McGleenan cut a disappointed figure after Cavan's Ulster Championship exit to Donegal. Following their Qualifier exit to Tyrone, the former Red Hand forward has called time on his time with the Breffnimen. Picture by Margaret McLaughlin
Mattie McGleenan cut a disappointed figure after Cavan's Ulster Championship exit to Donegal. Following their Qualifier exit to Tyrone, the former Red Hand forward has called time on his time with the Breffnimen. Picture by Margaret McLaughlin Mattie McGleenan cut a disappointed figure after Cavan's Ulster Championship exit to Donegal. Following their Qualifier exit to Tyrone, the former Red Hand forward has called time on his time with the Breffnimen. Picture by Margaret McLaughlin

MATTIE McGleenan has stepped down as Cavan boss after two years in charge, less than a fortnight after their Championship exit to Tyrone.

The Breffnimen came into the Ulster Championship buoyed by an impressive National League campaign, securing promotion back to Division One at the first attempt.

However, they were well beaten by Donegal in Ballybofey in their provincial opener and, despite rebuilding with Qualifier wins over Wicklow and Down, McGleenan's men eventually exited the All-Ireland series against the Red Hands at Brewster Park

A statement from the Cavan County Board read: "Following a two year term, Mattie McGleenan is announcing with immediate effect his decision to step down as Cavan senior football team manager.

"Mattie would like to sincerely thank his backroom team and all who helped over the two seasons - Lorcan Martin, Aidan McCabe, Finbar O’Reilly, Jimmy Higgins, Eoin Maguire, Tom Gribben, Peter Walsh, Martin McGovern, Patricia O’Reilly, Plunkett McCallan, John O’Connor, Hugh Donnelly, Declan Coyle, Ollie Martin, Brian Henry, Adrian McKiernan, Niall McKiernan and the late Dominic Earley. He also thanks the medical team of Dr Philip Carolan, Simon Gaffney, Eamonn O’Reilly and Brendan Sherry.

"Mattie would like to thank the county board under chairman Gerry Brady and the officers for the opportunity to manage Cavan and for the continued support over the past two years. He wishes Cavan all the best in the future.

"Cavan GAA would like to put on record their appreciation and gratitude for the huge commitment and effort Mattie and his management have given to Cavan football. Mattie has an infectious positivity and was always a pleasure to work with. We wish Mattie and his family every success in the future."