End of an era for Crumlin United as record-breaking manager Martin Loughran steps down
Loughran (right on bench) took charge of Crumlin's FAI Cup quarter-final tie with Bohemians in 2019. Credit: Eddie Lennon (ETPhotos)
It’s the end of an era at Crumlin United as senior team manager Martin Loughran has stepped down following a more than 40-year association with the club.
The club has endured its most successful period in adult football under his stewardship, winning all six of their Leinster Senior League titles with the Dubliner at the helm.
Loughran has also guided the club to the FAI Intermediate Cup title four times, both times with back-to-back successes, and leaves them arguably the most successful club in amateur football.
They went the entire 2018/19 season unbeaten, except for a loss in the Intermediate Cup final against Avondale United in the Aviva.
And they reached the quarter-finals of the 2019 FAI Cup before being edged out by Bohemians at Richmond Park.
The Blue Boys were beaten to the title last season by Malahide United but only Bluebell United, Cherry Orchard and Wayside United can boast multiple titles over the past two decades.
After 40 years of playing and management in the LSL with our wonderful club its time to call it a day.
— Crumlin United (@crumlinunited) November 28, 2020
I have enjoyed every minute of it.I have played with and managed with some of the best amateur players and coaches in the country. pic.twitter.com/EB4sxlGBKQ
The Loughran family is stepped in Crumlin United and it was Martin’s brother, Jem, who signed the club’s most famous graduate, Robbie Keane, as a nine-year-old.
Keane would go on to thank Jem, as well as coach Larry Fox, when he announced his retirement from international football following the European Championships in 2016.
“After 40 years of playing and management in the LSL with our wonderful club it’s time to call it a day,” Loughran wrote through the club’s social media accounts.
“I have enjoyed every minute of it.I have played with and managed with some of the best amateur players and coaches in the country.
“With the help of these players, coaches and the wonderful staff that worked with me over the 20 years as manager, Crumlin Utd have become one of the most successful clubs in the LSL and the country.
“To all the players and staff many who are still friends, to all the coaches, volunteers, players, supporters and people of Crumlin, thank you for all the support.
“To the many football managers, coaches , players, supporters, legislators and match officials form the LSL and around the country thank you for making it a great experience.
“To my family, especially my five brothers, you have always being there to support me and our great club.
“Finally, to my wife Brenda, my kids Emma, James and Evan and my two side-kicks Sonnie and Stevie, thank you so much.
“We could not have achieved what we did without your support. It’s [been] an unbelievable journey.”
