DARYL'S DOUBLING DOWN!

McMahon is primed to lead Urchins

- Matt Badcock

DARYL McMahon says watching Hornchurch in the flesh over a number of games made him leap at the chance to be their manager.

The former Ebbsfleet United, Macclesfield Town and Dagenham & Redbridge boss has turned down opportunities in the National League this season feeling they weren’t right for him or his family.

But the 40-year-old returned to the dug-out this week at the Isthmian Premier leading Urchins, who saw manager Steve Morison depart for League Two Sutton United last month.

McMahon spoke to his predecessor – and former Stevenage team-mate – ahead of taking role at the club who entered the weekend nine points clear at the top of the table.

But it was also conversations with owner Alex Sharp and vice-chairman Colin McBride, as well as watching their away games at Carshalton, Billericay and Enfield Town that gave him the confidence to take a Step 3 job.

“I was really impressed by the team and by the spirit in the group – it just stands out a mile,” McMahon told The NLP.

“Their will to win, their together ness, aligned with the quality they’ve got as well.