It’s sad to see Gary Boyle go, but Newry can fight back: Martin McLoughlin

Gary Boyle stepped down as Newry City boss after the Boxing Day defeat to Glenavon

Newry City chairman Martin McLoughlin says he’s gutted Gary Boyle was unable to revive fortunes at the Showgrounds but the club will fight hard to retain its Premiership status.

Boyle stepped down as manager after the 4-0 defeat to Glenavon on Boxing Day.

After replacing Darren Mullen, he was unable to steer City away from relegation trouble.

Newry sit bottom of the standings after winning just three of their 23 League matches this season and recording 17 defeats.

The defeat to the Lurgan Blues leaves City three points adrift at the bottom of the table.

Newry assistant manager Damien Hillen has been appointed caretaker boss while the club searches for Boyle’s successor.

“The club has to work hard now to find a replacement,” said McLoughlin.

“It’s a big job and challenge for someone. We’ve had a few enquiries already.

“It’s unfortunate. Gary is a very committed individual and unfortunately it hasn’t worked out.

“I like Gary a lot, he’s a genuine hard working lad.

“He was unlucky with injuries and sometimes things don’t work out for you.

“He has struggled to have a settled team and missed key players at key times.”

Boyle spoke about the criticism he received at the end of his time in charge and McLoughlin accepts some fans have high expectations.

“Fans can be demanding and sometimes social media doesn’t help,” he added.

“I appointed Gary and was behind him 100 per cent.

“It’s a results-based game and the manager is always an easy target.

“Our budget is actually bigger than last year and we thought we could sign well.

“We just haven’t been able to get key players on the pitch at the same time.

“Ryan McGivern, to his credit, has been playing