There was much discussion in Northern Ireland at this time about the failing quality of football. Was it the management? The players? The lack of support? Malcolm Brodie interviews Gibby McKenzie on leaving Portadown FC and his new job managing football in Johannesburg, South Africa and asks him his thoughts. Watch Gibby reconsider his words as he says it’s in a much worse state than when he arrived. McKenzie feels it’s in decline here due to disconnection between teams and youth players and blames supporters for not coming to games.  Wilbur Cush was appointed as player-manager at Shamrock Park in his place. He planned to change some things but didn’t commit too much, with his former boss sitting right there. 

Portadown FC was formed in 1887 as a junior team initially seeking to participate in the Mid-Ulster Cup, with them eventually joining the Irish League with the support of other local clubs in 1924.  

An Ulster Television Production.

• Broadcasting Authority Ireland