Ballyglass aiming to make mark on Super League following promotion

FERGAL Burke believes Ballyglass can do more than simply survive in their first season back in the
Super League, provided they have a full panel available.

“If we have a full squad and we’re not affected by other sports, I think they could do very well,” the
interim manager said.

“I wouldn’t be surprised if they end up in the top half of the table.”

Burke has stepped in while the club continues its search for a permanent manager. He accepts that the delay has not been ideal preparation.

“No, it’s not ideal, surely. We’ve made a lot of phone calls. It’s not that easy,” he said. Even so, he believes the role should appeal.

“We have a very good squad there. The facilities are top class. Any manager that comes in will be well supported and they’ll be surprised by the amount of good players we have.”

On the question of survival, Burke was clear. “If we have our full squad and we’re not affected by other sports, I don’t think survival would be an issue,” he said.

Managing dual commitments will be a significant factor. Out of a squad of 25, Burke estimates that “at
least half” are involved in other sports.

He expects fewer issues in the opening weeks and pointed to last season’s promotion campaign as evidence that the group can cope.

“The lads turned up to most of the games anyway. That’s why we got promoted,” he said.

There were times when numbers were tight, with 12 to 14 available, but when everyone was fit and free, selection was a challenge.

“You were talking about picking from 22 or 23 players. It wasn’t easy for our former manager either.”

In terms of changes, four members of last year’s strong under-18 side have stepped up to the senior
squad.

They have featured in challenge matches and, according to Burke, “have been fairly impressive
so far.”

The split-season format is another adjustment for the division. Burke sees merit in it. “There’s no point in teams getting well beaten,” he said.

In his view, dividing the table should create more balanced contests, with the top five contesting the title and the bottom five battling to stay up. “It can only be a good thing.”

As for the likely champions, he expects Castlebar Celtic and Westport United to feature prominently. “I’ll go with Celtic,” he said.

When asked about signing from elsewhere, Burke declined to name anyone. “We’re happy enough with who we have,” he said. “When other sports don’t affect us, we have a really strong squad.”