GAA star Eoin relishing opportnity with Coleraine

The Derry GAA star signed for the Bannsiders just before the transfer deadline on Saturday night to bolster the club’s striking options and he told Times Sport he is already looking forward to the big games.

“I’ve played in front of crowds of 80,000 against Dublin so now I want to experience the big games in the Irish League,” said the 28-year-old.

“I’ve been to a few big games at The Showgrounds, but I can’t wait to actually be involved in one.”

Bradley was almost the hero for Ballymoney in last week’s penalty shoot-out defeat to Ballymena in the league cup. But that game has whetted his appetite.

“We played really well on the night and probably should have won,” he said.

“I was delighted to score a couple and I was pleased with how I did against them.

“It would have been nice to sign off with a win but it wasn’t to be. I’d just like to thank Ballymoney for making this move possible.

*Full interview on colerainetimes.co.uk

“It all happened quite quickly. I first heard of Oran’s interest late on Friday night and then it was all wrapped up within 24 hours.

“As I say Ballymoney and John Fall were brilliant in helping me get the move, I can’t thank them enough.

“I’m relishing the opportunity Oran has given me at this level and now I just can’t wait to get started.”

Eoin’s brother Paddy played for both Cliftonville and Dungannon in the past and he is hoping for similar success on the football field.

“I’ve played locally for Kilrea United for the last few seasons to keep myself fit during the break in the GAA. I always wanted to challenge myself at a higher level though,” said Eoin.

“This is a great opportunity for me to do that.

“I just want to repay the faith shown in me by Oran and give it my best shot.”

His new manager is delighted to have secured his services.

“I’ve been tracking Eoin for quite a while,” Kearney admitted.

“He’s one of the top players in the Derry county side and has a lot of attributes that will transfer well into football. He’s strong, fast, with a great left foot and his physical presence will help give us a different dimension.

“In terms of depth, up front is where we’re weakest as we only really have Gary Browne and Shane Jennings in terms of established players, with Johnny Stewart still being very inexperienced. Eoin has played in front of huge crowds at places Croke Park and Clones, he brings plenty of big-game experience with him.

“He has been playing some football for Ballymoney this summer and was very impressive in their league cup tie with Ballymena when they were unfortunate to lose on penalties.”

Bradley has been given the number 13 shirt. He will have to wait to make his debut though as he is unavailable for Saturday’s trip to Dungannon due to GAA club commitments.