Ballyheane gear up for another exciting Super League campaign

SEÁN Kilcoyne believes Ballyheane are well placed to compete as he takes charge for the opening part
of the season, pointing to a productive pre-season and increased competition within the squad.

“I’d be hoping we’ll go alright,” he said. “We’ve had a lot of pre-season friendly matches under the belt
and a couple of new players coming in.

"We’re hoping to push towards the top of the table and give it a good shot.”

The return of Liam Irwin from Canada is viewed as significant.

“That’s a big addition for us,” Kilcoyne said. Gareth Dunne has also rejoined, described by the manager as “a good forward”, while younger players are pressing for involvement.

“There’s good numbers around and good competition in the squad, which is always good.”

Rory Morris has departed for a year of travelling. “That’s unfortunate,” Kilcoyne said. “Rory was going
well for us, but you can’t hold someone back from that. We’ve plenty of cover.”

Ballyheane lifted league titles in 2021 and 2022 but have not matched that level since. Kilcoyne attributes that to turnover in the squad.

“It is difficult to keep it going when you’ve had a lot of changes,” he said.

“But the signs are good. We’ve a good squad developing and we’ll take each game as it comes.”

As a rural club, Ballyheane continue to manage players involved in other sports. Kilcoyne accepts that
balance is required.

“You have to let people have a bit of freedom,” he said. “But when they commit to us at the start of the season, we expect them to be there when we need them.”

The split-season format returns this year and Kilcoyne believes it raises the stakes early on. “You have to make sure you’re in that top half,” he said.

“When you’re playing the top teams twice at the end, that’s where it can really decide things.”

After finishing sixth last season, he accepts improvement is required. “Getting into the top half is the aim. That’s where things will be decided.”

Looking across the league, he identified Castlebar Celtic as the benchmark, alongside Westport, Ballina Town, Glenhest and Conn Rangers.

“It’s going to be very competitive,” he said.

Asked what type of player he would add if given the chance, Kilcoyne was direct. “Everyone wants
goals,” he said. “Goals kill teams. That’s what you’d be going for.”