Gordon Connelly quits as Forres Mechanics manager after just six matches in charge, Steven MacDonald takes over the reins
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FORRES Mechanics have announced the departure of Gordon Connelly as manager at Mosset Park, just two months after taking the job.
His assistant Steven MacDonald has stepped up to take on the role, with coach Brian Macleod staying on as his number two.
Connelly was appointed in mid-November and bossed the Mosset Park side for only six matches before calling it a day.
His reign began disastrously with back-to-back 7-0 home defeats against Rothes and Fraserburgh, and Forres failed to win any of their next four prior to Connelly's exit.
A Forres statement read: "Due to a change in personal circumstances, Gordon Connelly has decided he is unable to give the time and commitment required for the role of manager.
"We have acted swiftly and are pleased to appoint Steven MacDonald as manager with Brian Macleod assisting."
Connelly previously managed Wick Academy and was MacDonald's assistant at Rothes.
The new management team succeeded long-serving boss Charlie Rowley, who was in charge for over a decade and led Mechanics to only the second Highland League title of their history.
Following a pair of seven-goal defeats at the start of his managerial term, Connelly lost his next two matches against Wick Academy and Formartine before gaining a first point in a 0-0 draw at Lossiemouth this month.
Last Saturday's 3-2 home defeat to Nairn County proved to be Connelly's last game at the helm.
MacDonald and Macleod will take charge for the first time when Forres visit Turriff United on Saturday.