Kearney to wait for right move

The market opens again on January 1st and whilst the Bannsiders boss told Times Sport he will be looking out for new talent any moves will however depend on departures out of the Showgrounds.

“At this moment in time we are sitting with a squad of around 22 players so it means we’d probably have to move someone on if we want to bring someone in,” said Kearney.

“There’s not too many players available at this moment. But as with every transfer window we are always looking to strengthen and improve the squad, so if the right player comes along then of course we would be keen to get him.

“It’s a case of wait and see. Sometimes one move can trigger of a few others.”

Kearney was delighted his players got back to winning ways on Saturday with a 2-1 win over Donegal Celtic. And he will be hoping to follow that up with a victory over Ballinamallard this Saturday.

“Ballinamallard have had a super first season in the top flight so far,” he said. “The day we went down there we had a mid-week game that week and it left us a bit lethargic and we felt we probably had a bit more to give that day.

“It’s a result we would like to put right that’s for sure and coming into this busy Christmas period it’s vital we pick up another three points.

“I can say whatever I want to the players, but the only thing that really gives them confidence is winning games and the more games you win on the pitch the more confidence you get.

“We’re coming into a very busy spell now so hopefully that can be the catalyst to kick us on.”

Several first team squad members featured for the Reserves’ 5-0 win over Donegal Celtic on Saturday.

Kearney told Times Sport this was to give people games ahead of the busy festive period.

“We’ve only room for 16 in the match day panel and you can get caught up with just the 11 who are playing,” he said.

“But if someone was called upon in the next few weeks after having sat on the bench for four or five weeks then they would be behind in terms of fitness.

“With us and the Reserves both playing today it was important that we kept those players ticking over and rotate the bench to make sure people got games.”

Meanwhile, the club Carol Service will be held in New Row Presbyterian Church this Sunday, December 23 at 3pm. Dubbed the ‘Carol of only one Half’ Club Chaplain, Rev Robert McMullan is encouraging as many fans as possible to come along for the 45 minute service.