Chairman confirms exit as Portadown boss McFall resigns after 29 years

The Ports boss informed the Board of Directors of his decision to step down in the aftermath of a shock Irish Cup quarter-final exit to Lurgan Celtic.

A slump in league form had left McFall under increasing pressure from the fans and the 3-2 defeat by Championship One-based Celtic marked the end of Portadown’s trophy ambitions.

Portadown chairman Roy McMahon confirmed to the ‘Times’ after the match of the manager’s decision.

“It is a shame that Ronnie McFall’s time as Portadown manager has ended in this way,” said McMahon. “Ronnie has done so much for this club and his record-breaking achievements should never be forgotten.

“He told us of his decision after the result and now it is time for the club to regroup and discuss the way forward.

“We would like to thank Ronnie for his service to the club and for the landmark success he made possible.

“We will meet at the earliest possible convenience to discuss our options.

“The priority will be a plan to take us to the end of the season.”

Names linked with the position so far include David Jeffrey, Matthew Tipton, Pat McGibbon and Niall Currie.