EXCLUSIVE: Dunipace boss leaves to join Cumbernauld Colts in Lowland League

Craig McKinlay and James Orr will manage Cumbernauld Colts’ debut season in the Scottish Lowland League after leaving Dunipace last night.
Dunipace duo Craig McKinlay and James Orr are heading for the Lowland League newboys Cumbernauld ColtsDunipace duo Craig McKinlay and James Orr are heading for the Lowland League newboys Cumbernauld Colts
Dunipace duo Craig McKinlay and James Orr are heading for the Lowland League newboys Cumbernauld Colts

The Westfield Park management duo said farewell to players last night after the 5-1 defeat of Wishaw.

It ends more than a decade and a half of association with ‘Pace for McKinlay as a player, coach and latterly as a manager.

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He said: “It was an emotional evening for me. I have been at the club for a long time as a player, as a coach and latterly as manager.

“I believe James and I are leaving the club with a great deal of stability and in a strong position going forward,

“The decision to leave and join Cumbernauld Colts was not an easy one but it is a fantastic opportunity and one we are looking forward to.”

The pair will be co-managers at Broadwood after lifting Dunipace to fourth in the Central League Division One and narrowly missing out on promotion this season.

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McKinlay added: “Missing out on promotion was a big disappointemnt, but finishing in fourth place is still progression for Dunipace and there is scope for more. progression in the future.

“Youth football is well set-up now and the club has stability.

“There is a good core of players at the club and some have the capabilities and the desire to play at a higher level,.”

But McKinlay ruled out plundering his old team for new Colts. “I wouldn’t do that to Dunipace. If players were leaving anyway then I would perhaps speak to them, but I hope to see Dunipace kick on and progress next season.”