Murphy’s laws already evident as new era dawns for Finn Harps

Visitors to Finn Park on Sunday might’ve noticed some subtle changes made by new manager Darren Murphy.

When Finn Harps emerged for their opening pre-season friendly against Derry City, they did so from the changing rooms in the clubhouse.

Since the installation of temporary dressing rooms, in portacabins bought in 2020 in order to make the ground Covid compliant before football’s return, the visiting teams have used the old dressing rooms.

For the best part of the last four seasons, Harps have used the dressing rooms in the Aldi terrace.

Ryan Flood to remain at Finn Harps unless acceptable offer made - Darren Murphy

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As they head into Murphy’s reign at the helm, Harps are firmly back on Navenny Street again,.

“We have moved back across to the main building to be beside our own fans,” Murphy said after Sunday’s 2-2 draw.

“We have started something small, but that’s hugely important, building that connection and I am all for being a part of that bond between players and supporters.”

Sunday also marked a first pre-season game at home for Harps in 11 years.

Although there have been a couple of midseason friendlies in Ballybofey, not since a February 2013 meeting with Derry have Finn Park’s gates been open for a pre-season fixture.

A good attendance were treated to a useful encounter. Goals by Ryan Flood and Max Hutchison saw Harps twice come from a goal down to earn a draw.

Murphy said: “It was nice to have a game at home and we have one more at home. It is important that we try to build a relationship between the players and the fans. We have to do that early on.”

New signings David Cawley, Chris Lotefa and Success Edogun made the first Harps appearances.

At his unveiling as manager following a period as interim boss in the wake of Dave Rogers’ departure, Murphy promised to back the club’s young talent.

He seems true to his word in these early moments of pre-season.

The likes of goalkeeper Oisin Cooney and attacker Aaron McLaughlin have represented the Republic of Ireland at underage level and Murphy will trust his young guns.

Murphy said: “It is easier for me than a lot of managers in the League of Ireland. I come from a background of having belief in young players and understanding that young players will make mistakes. The young players have to feel confident in me, that I have their back.”

Cooney came in for Tim Hiemer at half-time and made one stunning save to deny Ben Doherty. Darragh Coyle, who made his first-team debut late last season, was also used.

The Harps manager said: “Bringing these young players in, hopefully that will give them confidence in their own ability and also that the coaching staff believe in them.

“I think it was something that was missed in 2023. It was well documented the season we had, but we had a lot of green shoots and a lot of pleasing things. You can see the fruits of some of that now.

“A lot of it hasn’t transferred out to the pitch, but it was always going to be long term. Will I get the fruits of the labour? I don’t know, but one thing I do know is that the football club will be in a healthier place. I can’t fault anyone for their effort and commitment so far.”