MURTAGH DEPARTS LILYWHITES

By Dave Jones on May 27, 07 10:52 PM

MIDFIELDER Conall Murtagh has left Rhyl to join Conference North club Southport, it was revealed today.
Murtagh, 21, was made an offer that was "too good to refuse" by Sandgrounders boss Peter Davenport, the former Bangor City manager.

Northern Ireland under-21 international Murtagh had an outstanding first season at Belle Vue, but found the lure of financial stability while a student hard to resist.
Ã¢ÂÂConallÃ¢ÂÂs a student at Manchester University and SouthportÃ¢ÂÂs offer of a full-time contract is the main reason behind his departure,Ã¢Â? said Rhyl boss John Hulse.
Ã¢ÂÂIÃ¢ÂÂd like to thank him for everything he did at Rhyl, he was a good signing.
"He thanked us, the players, the board and supporters for making his time so enjoyable at Rhyl. He also told me he thought there would be less travelling and better pitches in the Conference North, but I disagree on both counts.
"He might change his mind when he has to travel to Blyth Spartans on a bleak midweek winter night."
Murtagh started his career with Ballymena United and Crusaders before being spotted by Hearts. He made his Scottish League debut while on loan at Raith Rovers in January 2005. Following his release from Tynecastle, he spent pre-season with Sligo Rovers and then played in the reserves at Altrincham after arriving in Manchester as a student.
The Irishman joined Connah's Quay for 2005/6 but left at the end of the campaign and signed for Rhyl .
Murtagh made 23 full league appearances for the Lilywhites, scoring just one goal, but as the season wore on he really came into his own and emerged as a big favourite among the fans.

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