Liam Buckley resigns as St Patrick's Athletic manager

St Patrick’s Athletic have accepted the resignation of manager Liam Buckley with immediate effect.

Saturday evening’s 3-1 defeat to a fringe Bohemians selection appears to have been the final straw for Buckley, who was disconsolate following the loss.

The result saw the Gypsies leapfrog the Athletic into the top half of the table and effectively end any chance the Inchicore club had of returning to Europe next season.

He had been due to take charge of the side for the Leinster Senior Cup final against holders Shelbourne on Friday night but he seems to have done a u-turn in the meantime.

It's unclear who will take charge of the Saints for that game, although assistant manager Ger O'Brien or under-19s boss Darius Kierans could be in the frame.

Dubliner Buckley led the Athletic to a Premier Division title and their first FAI Cup triumph in 53 years during his seven-year stint in charge.

58-year-old Buckley, who also won a title with Pats during his first stint in charge in the late nineties, also had stints in charge of Shamrock Rovers, Athlone Town and Sporting Fingal.

“St Patrick's Athletic would like to announce that Liam Buckley has resigned from his position as first team manager by mutual consent,” a club statement read.

 



“Club chairman Garrett Kelleher would like to thank Liam for his numerous successes during his time here over the past number of years and in particular for bringing his brand of free flowing and passing football to St Pat's, which has brought much entertainment and enjoyment to those who witnessed it.

“On his part, Liam would like to thank all involved with St Pat's for the support given to him during his seven year reign and wishes the club the best of luck in the future.”