Writing his pre-match notes ahead of our upcoming run of six consecutive matches at Dixon Park, starting with the visit of Dollingstown tomorrow, Ballyclare Comrades Manager, Nathan McConnell, said:
“As we look ahead to tomorrow’s Conference Cup game, we enter a very busy period for the club, with six home games coming up — four cup ties followed by two league fixtures.
Our first four competitive games of the season have given us a solid start. We have drawn twice away from home at extremely tough venues and recorded two wins at home, which is a good foundation for what promises to be a very challenging season.
We have a new squad this year and, as you would expect, it takes time for new players to get to know each other and for the team to develop the understanding and consistency we as a coaching staff want. I have been pleased to see the group starting to gel, but we are under no illusions that there is still an awful lot of hard work ahead.
The league is going to be extremely tough and competitive, and every game will present its own challenges. Our aim is to keep improving, keep working hard and make sure we give ourselves the best possible chance of competing on all fronts .
We have also been patient during the transfer window, waiting for the right opportunity to strengthen the squad. I’m delighted that we have now been able to complete the signing of Liam Toman. Liam is a player who we believe can make a real contribution to the team and will help us replace the loss of Michael Leetch to Ballymena United. I’m sure the supporters will give Liam a warm welcome, and I’m looking forward to seeing him make his mark with the club.
Tomorrow’s game against Dollingstown is the start of a busy run of fixtures and we know how difficult an opponent they will be. They have been a well established club for a many years now, and like ourselves will be looking to use cup competitions to build momentum at this early stage of season.
We know there will be difficult moments along the way, but we have a group of players and backroom staff who are working hard and are determined to move this great club forward.
We hope to see as many of our supporters as possible at Dixon Park over the coming weeks and experiencing all the hard work that is going on behind the scenes by the tremendous board and team of volunteers that this club has.
Please come along, get behind the players, and make your voices heard
Nothing Except Your Best.”