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Shels confirm exit of trio, John Mahon commits to Sligo Rovers

Shane Griffin, left, and Matty Smith with the SSE Airtricity Men's Premier Division trophy
Shane Griffin, left, and Matty Smith with the SSE Airtricity Men's Premier Division trophy

Shelbourne have confirmed that forwards Matty Smith and Dean Williams as well as vice-captain Shane Griffin have left the club.

All three were out of contract at the end of a memorable campaign which saw the club win the SSE Airtricity Men's Premier Division title for the first time in 18 years.

Scottish attacker Smith scored two league goals during the season and has made 72 appearances in all competitions since initially joining on loan from Derry City midway through the 2022 campaign.

Striker Williams arrived at Shels before the start of 2024 from Bohemians but made just 15 appearances, while 30-year-old defender Griffin has been at Tolka Park since December 2022. The latter made 18 appearances in all competitions over the past season.

"The club extends its sincere gratitude to Shane, Matty, and Dean for their dedication and contributions. We wish them all the best in the next stage of their respective careers," a Shelbourne statement read.

Elsewhere John Mahon has signed a new two-year deal with Sligo Rovers.

The 24-year-old defender suffered an achilles injury last January. He only returned to action last month when he came off the bench against Galway United at Eamonn Deacy Park, but Mahon will be sticking around and is eyeing a bright 2025.

"It feels great to get the deal across the line,"he said.

"John (Russell) has shown huge faith in me in offering me a deal for next season and I want to repay that faith.

"2024 was a tough year for me but I learned a lot about myself and what I want. I am keen to come back better than before.

"I feel we can compete up near the top (next season).

"It’s been too long since we’ve had silverware at the Showgrounds and it’s time to realise that ambition once more."

Ken Kiernan (above) has stepped down as Bohemian FC women's head coach after one season at the helm.

Kiernan left his role as Athlone Town assistant to Ciaran Kilduff to take the post last winter. Bohs finished eight in the SSE Airtricity Women's Premier Division.

"It has been a pleasure and an honour to manage Bohemians this season," he said.

"I've learned so much from every one of the staff and players, and loved my time at the club.

"As we all know, it was a very young side we put together this season and to compete the way we did throughout the year was great to be a part of, helping to improve players as a manager is always the key for me personally and we saw that all year.

"It was a brilliant building block for the women's team."


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