KENNY Shiels along with his players, backroom team and support workers were afforded a civic reception in the city’s Guildhall on Tuesday night to mark the club’s recent success in the EA Sports Cup.
Mayor John Boyle, himself a lifelong Candystripe fan, said he was delighted to have been at the cup final last month as well as now having the opportunity to formally congratulate the club on their win.
“I’ve been supporting Derry City since before their League of Ireland days and it’s great to have you all here and with silverware on the table,” he said.
“I would like to acknowledge the efforts of Kenny and his players, as well as the all-important backroom team. I think it is also very important however to acknowledge the input of people like Philip Johnston who has given tremendous voluntary support to Derry City for as long as I can remember.”
Manager Shiels took the opportunity to thank the Mayor for his kind words and support but was keen to point out that there was plenty of unfinished business before the current season comes to a close.
“It’s great to win a trophy for the people of the city and be able to bridge a six-year gap since the last one. There are a lot of young players in our squad and winning can only help their development. That is a major goal for the club given how difficult it can be to bring in players from elsewhere.”
“There will be plenty of work to do in the coming weeks and months as we look ahead to next season, however, there are still four games left this year.
“We still have to aim for the teams above us in the league and if we can string four good results together then that might put a bit of pressure on them. We will be working hard to try to do just that.”
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