Coughlin Is No More

Last updated : 25 November 2003 By Stuart Gillespie

Coughlin was appointed when Hendrie was given the boot in September 2002. He was caretaker until Christmas when, despite many unconvincing results, he was given the job until the end of the season. More terrible performance followed, and Saints almost ended up being relegated. Coughlin's reward? A two year contract as Saints manager! Over the summer he generated some hope with some good signings, such as Mark Crilly, John O'Neill and Eddie Annand. He also signed injury prone crocks Kevin Twaddle and Paul McKnight, as well as Kevin McGowne who has been duff.

The start to the season wasn't too bad but by September, when Queen of the South came, things were not looking good. QoS left with a 2-1 victory and the calls for his head began. Over the last three weekends, a 0-0 draw against Brechin City and defeats to Clyde and Caley Thistle have finished him. The Saints board have done what they should have done a long, long time ago.

Saints are once again at the wrong end of the table, just a few points above Ayr who we face at Love Street in a few weeks. He now has a non coaching role within the club, in otherwords we can't afford to sack him.

Gus MacPherson has been put in temporary charge of the first team, though I'd doubt him being Coughlin's permanent successor. Rimours suggest Campbell Money, John Connolly, Sandy Clark, Mark Hately, Jimmy Nicholl, Alan Kernaghan and more are in line for the hotseat. Best of luck to whoever takes it.

As for Mr. Coughlin. I'd like to thank you for the good work you've done as Saints boss but, sadly, I can't think of many good things you have done. I didn't want you to fail but you clearly have. Thanks for assisting TH to the title.

Story source: The Official St. Mirren Website