14 months on from their departure as joint managers of the Mayo senior footballers, Tom Cunniffe has spoken regarding the ousting of Pat Holmes and Noel Connelly.
In October of last year, Holmes and Connelly stood down. It came days after a majority of the panel had a vote of no confidence against them.
Speaking to the Irish Independent, Tom Cunniffe - who opted out of the Mayo panel earlier this year - said that Holmes and Connelly deserved better treatment than they were given at the time.
Cunniffe was one of those who voted against the pair.
We treated them badly. They should never have had to resign. They deserved a lot better.
Obviously, the initial reaction will be - 'why is he doing this?' Some lads will be annoyed - some might say 'fair play' but whatever happens, I have no problems taking any arrows that come my way if it's any help to Pat and Noel.
They are proud Mayo men who did so much for the county over many years. Their heart will always be in Mayo football.
Under Holmes and Connelly, Mayo would lose out in last year's All-Ireland semi-final following a replay with Dublin. Their replacement Stephen Rochford would go one better this year, reaching the All-Ireland final but Mayo again fell to Dublin after a replay.
Cunniffe said that he believes the decision to dislodge the management duo was taken too quickly.
I believe our decision was rash. I felt we should have had a few leaders meet Pat and Noel and go through the various issues that had been raised at the first two meetings. I would have much preferred that.
