UCD sack manager Collie O'Neill following record defeat to Bohemians

UCD have sacked manager Collie O’Neill just four days before their FAI Cup second round encounter with St Patrick’s Athletic.

The move comes three days after the club slumped to a record 10-1 defeat to Bohemians at Dalymount Park that leaves them six points adrift at the bottom of the table.

O’Neill is the most successful coach in the club’s recent history, having guided them through two rounds of the Europa League in 2015 and sealed the First Division title last season.

2018 also saw the club reach the semi-finals of the FAI Cup for the first time in a decade, where they were edged out 1-0 by eventual champions Dundalk at Oriel Park.

O’Neill has been hamstrung by the departure of league-winning midfielder Greg Sloggett to Derry City over the off-season.

Captain Gary O’Neill and Ireland under-21 winger Neil Farrugia left mid-season for Shamrock Rovers and striker Conor Davis joined Derry City.

Ireland under-21 defender Liam Scales missed a month as he unsuccessfully pursued a deal with Bristol Rovers while keeper Conor Kearns was suspended for six games for incitement.

“UCD AFC can tonight confirm that we have parted company with our First Team manager Collie O’Neill with immediate effect,” read a statement released by the club.

“We would like to thank Collie for his hard work and contribution to the club since joining the club as first team coach in 2011 before taking over as our first team manager ahead of the 2015 season, with the highlights being our 2015 Europa League campaign, and of course last season’s First Division title winning campaign.

“We would like to wish Collie the best of luck and success in the future.

“The club will be making no further comment at this stage and is currently reviewing its managerial options.”