Kearney praises the efforts of Ogilby as curtain comes down on the season

The consensus of opinion at Coleraine Showgrounds on Saturday was ‘Roll on next season’ - and who could blame that sentiment?
David Ogilby challenges for the ball. PICTURE: Derek SimpsonDavid Ogilby challenges for the ball. PICTURE: Derek Simpson
David Ogilby challenges for the ball. PICTURE: Derek Simpson

It has been a largely forgettable season for the Bannsiders.

But work has already started for next season as Oran Kearney is determined to turn things around.

Saturday’s goalless draw may have been a typical end of season affair, but Kearney was pleased with the performance of a number of his players.

Stepping up to the mark and Lee Lindsay and Adam Mullan

.Stepping up to the mark and Lee Lindsay and Adam Mullan

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Stepping up to the mark and Lee Lindsay and Adam Mullan .

In particular centre half David Ogilby. The big defender has had a frustrating season, but Kearney feels his performances in recent weeks show he is getting back to his best again.

“I’m pleased for David because hand on heart I was wondering whether or not he would have a future at the club,” Kearney told Times Sport.

“But coming into the last five games he has shown to me, but more importantly he has shown to himself, there still is a big player in there and an important player.

“We’ve had three clean sheets in the last three games which is a big bonus.

“We’ve invested a lot of time into David and he has a huge amount of appearances behind him and to try and even contemplate replacing him was something I didn’t want to do.

“He was a big loss this season, but I’m delighted how he has come back and kicked on. It’s refreshing to see him out enjoying his football again and he’s more like the David we all know again.”

Kearney was glad Saturday’s draw with Dungannon finally brought the curtain down on the season.

“It was a typical end of season game and I’m glad to see it all over to be honest.

“The only way you get a fresh wave or impetus is when you get an end to something.

“We all go away now and we have a lot of work to do. I have spoken to the players individually and collectively about how important the start to next season is.

“It has been a tough season but the players will all come back stronger for what happened this term.”

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