A comprehensive survey conducted by ‘The Munster Express’ has shown Davy Fitzgerald retains sizeable support in his bid to remain in charge of the Waterford senior hurling team.
In a poll conducted this week by phone, street canvas and online, 78 per cent of respondents were in favour of Fitzgerald staying on as manager, with the rest indicating they’d like to see someone else at the helm.
Mount Sion boss Jim Greene, Glenmore native Eddie O’Connor and De La Salle manager Michael Ryan are the others on the four-strong shortlist (see page 2).
The findings come as it was confirmed that the position will be filled at a special County Board meeting in Dungarvan next Monday evening – just seven days after the deadline for nominations.
It had been expected that the four officers charged with interviewing the candidates – including County Chairman Tom Cunningham, who has publicly backed Fitzgerald – wouldn’t report back with their recommendation until the next scheduled board meeting in early October. However, they’re clearly confident of having their minds made up before then.
Those who took part in our poll, drawn from across the city and county, were asked if they would like to see Davy Fitz’ stay put or for someone else to be given a chance.
Respondents who said they’d like a new manager were asked which of the alternative nominees they’d prefer. Of the 22 per cent who wanted change, Jim Greene emerged as the most popular choice, although voting was close for all candidates.
Those against Fitzgerald’s reappointment expressed concerns regarding certain techniques which he’d applied to the Déise team.
A small portion also said they would like someone other than the four contenders as manager in 2011.
Many of those who supported the Clareman’s tenure drew their opinion from the fact that Waterford had reached their first All-Ireland final since 1959 under his reign, and had also added another Munster title this year.
*To have your say, log onto www.munster-express.ie or visit The Munster Express Facebook page.