Surreal. That’s the word Willie Boland used to describe his winning debut as a manager in the Premier Division of the SSE Airtricity League. In caretaker charge of Limerick following manager Martin Russell’s departure early last week, Boland led th
Surreal.
That’s the word Willie Boland used to describe his winning debut as a manager in the Premier Division of the SSE Airtricity League.
In caretaker charge of Limerick following manager Martin Russell’s departure early last week, Boland led the Shannonsiders to a 2-0 win over St Patrick’s Athletic at Richmond Park on Friday night.
Central defender Tony Whitehead flicked home a 26th minute free kick from skipper Shane Duggan to give Limerick a deserved lead.
St Pat’s came on strongly in the second half, but a brilliant penalty save by former Saint Brendan Clarke from friend Conan Byrne was the turning point in the game.
Substitute John O’Flynn then raced clear onto Chiedozie Ogbene’s through ball to shoot home Limerick’s second goal on 83 minutes.
“It’s been surreal,” said Boland afterwards. “I didn’t expect to find myself in this situation. But you’ve got to enjoy these situations, enjoy the occasion. It’s what you are in the game for.
“It’s a new experience for me and one that I’ve enjoyed so far.”
But Boland, who doesn’t hold a UEFA Pro Licence, was quick to point out his role as first team manager is temporary.
“That’s the way it will be,” said Boland. “One result doesn't make me a good manager all of a sudden. I’ll continue to do the job for as long as I’ll have to do it.
“My role at the club is academy manager and that will be my role. And if I’m needed to be interim manager (of the first team) for the foreseeable future then I will do so.”
