Manager’s programme notes
Posted : 17th December 2022
Today we will face a difficult assignment against a committed Dungannon Swifts’ team that will come here, determined to build on their recent impressive home wins against Glenavon and Carrick Rangers.
Dungannon will come here full of belief and needing points. to help them break clear of the relegation zone, so we know we will face a formidable challenge in today’s vitally important game.
We were pleased with our recent 3-1 home Premiership win against Carrick Rangers, as it helped us climb back into contention among the front runners, towards the top of the table. We are in the ‘chasing pack’, trailing the leaders Larne by several points, and with a lot to play for over the course of our remaining league games.
We were delighted to win 3-0 at the Oval in the League cup semi-final with an excellent all round team performance and we now have a Windsor Park final to look forward to against Coleraine in March.
We were disappointed to be knocked out of the SPFL Trust trophy on penalties last week but we wish Kelty Hearts every success in the next round.
While it was pleasing to receive the November manager of the month trophy, these awards are only made possible thanks to the efforts of the talented group of players and staff at the club.
I want to congratulate Club captain Jamie Mulgrew who could make his 700th appearance for the club in today’s game. He’s been a wonderful servant to this club and despite having achieved so much throughout his long and exceptional career, his hunger to win further trophies for this club remains undiminished. His place among the legends of this clubs is assured and he will be totally focused on marking today’s very special personal achievement, by trying to secure a win for the team he leads by example and with distinction.
Congratulations to young Andrew Clarke who has impressed greatly this season and who has earned and signed a two-year contract extension to take effect at the end of the current season.
Chris Shields will return to the squad today, having missed last week’s game in Kelty, due to suspension.
We have been delighted to welcome Niall Quinn back to playing action, following his injury lay off but we will continue to be missing several key players today. Continuing their recovery from injury are Jordan Stewart, Ben Hall, Kirk Millar and Andrew Clarke.
Ross Larkin continues with light training and our medical team will carefully assess recent injuries sustained by Robbie McDaid and Joel Cooper, before ascertaining their fitness levels ahead of today’s game.
Stephen Fallon underwent an MRI scan, following the knee injury he suffered in the recent home game against Crusaders and unfortunately, we expect him to be unavailable for some time.
In closing, can I wish a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New year to all our club personnel and all our supporters and their families.