Des Macorison’s reign at Harrogate Railway is over and his recently appointed assistant Mick O’Connell will take charge until the end of the season.
Macorison, a former Railway player, has endured a torrid few months as his side have never recovered from the loss of star striker Joe Jagger to Brighouse Town, who offered him a chance he could not turn down. Railway have only won once since Jagger left.
Railway started the Toolstation NCEL Division One season brilliantly, playing some of their best football since the Billy Miller era and winning many plaudits. Had Jagger stayed, there is no doubt that Macorison would be still in charge, and Railway would be sitting in the top half.
But losing a player of Jagger’s stellar quality, plus injuries and multiple postponements at bad moments stalled their progress and with East Hull pathetically losing 10-1 to Ollerton Town, the gap between Railway and the teams above them is now wider.
Despite Railway’s form and an early exit, Macorison should be still regarded as a bright managerial prospect. He is hard-working, has extensive contacts and has a great tactical knowledge.
His replacement O’Connell is former Railway player during the brief Liam Gray era. He has been assisting Macorison for a few weeks.
Josh Walsh and Will Golby will assist.