Pre-season preparations well underway

Last season's player of the year, Gareth McConaghie, has joined his former boss Tommy Wright at Lisburn Distillery.

Big striker David Patton, who managed seventeen goals, will not be returning after he was released.

There are several new additions to the Roesiders with Francis McKenna moving from Ballymoney United. He can play at right back or right midfield.

Conleth McCaughan has also been added to the squad and he is highly thought of and can play up front or left midfield.

United currently have a few players on trial, one of which Ryan McCreadie, was previously at the Showgrounds.

Manager Oran Kearney feels that continuance will be the key this season for his side.

"I said last season that it would be easier for the like of Donegal Celtic and Loughgall because of their squads," he said.

"All they had to do was the keep the same team who had been together for the last few seasons.

"We were different because most of our team was changed in one way or another and it takes time when this happens.

"We have only lost two players so have the majority of last season's squad and have added a few as well.

"It's always good to freshen the team a bit and there may be another new face or two before the season starts.

"There are a few things in the pipeline which I am working on and hopefully will be sorted out shortly," said Kearney.

And, Limavady's pre-season match schedule starts this Saturday-here is the schedule:Saturday, July 10, MATCH (h) Ballycastle Utd 11.00 KO (Players Golf Day in afternoon 2.00 start), Thursday, July 15 MATCH (h) Ballymena Utd 7.45 KO, Saturday, July 11

MATCH (h) L Distillery 3.00 KO, Thursday, July 22 MATCH (h) Coleraine, 7.45 KO, Saturday, July 24, MATCH (h) Derriaghy 3.00 KO, Saturday July 31, MATCH (A) Crusaders 3.00 KO.