McGauley and Ballinrobe prepared for Super League campaign

CHRIS McGauley believes Ballinrobe Town are equipped to match, and possibly better, last season’s
return as they prepare for their third campaign in the Super League.

“I think we’ve had a really strong pre-season,” he said. “So I’m hoping we perform as well or a little better than we did last season. We’re looking forward to it.”

There has been change within the squad. Goalkeeper Seán Shaughnessy has taken a break, a
development McGauley admitted caused some concern.

“Everybody knows Seán around the league and we were worried a bit about that,” he said. However, he feels the position has been reinforced, adding that “very good goalkeepers have come into the squad now, so we’ve strengthened there.”

Younger players are also expected to play a greater role. Ben Place featured last year but McGauley
indicated he will be more involved this season.

“He’s probably going to play a bigger role,” he said. A number of former players have returned after time away studying or pursuing other commitments.

“They’re still very young,” McGauley said. “We’re happy enough with the squad we have now.”

Theo Ballinger has departed to join Mayo FC at under-20 level. “We’re going to miss him,” McGauley
said, “but we’re delighted for him to have the opportunity. We wouldn’t stand in his way.”

Like many town-based clubs, Ballinrobe must manage players who are involved in other sports.
McGauley accepts that there is “a pull” on players’ time and energy and said the key is dialogue.

“For me, it’s open communication with the players. See where they’re at, see how they’re feeling. We have to be mindful of their bodies.”

He acknowledged that some may have to be managed carefully, with decisions made about which games they feature in.

The new split-season format is one he welcomes. “I think it’s definitely worthwhile,” he said, arguing that the league had become predictable at times.

In his view, dividing the table midway through the campaign should lead to closer contests in both halves

He also hopes for a more even spread of results across the division, after several heavy scorelines last season.

“That’s not good for anybody,” he said. Asked whether Ballinrobe can reach the top half at the split, McGauley was direct.

“I don’t see why not. We left some points behind us last year. If we can replicate that and improve on it a bit, we’ve a chance.”

Looking elsewhere, he expects Westport’s pace to keep them in contention and believes Ballina could
also have a strong say.

If given one signing from another club, his choice was clear. “Dylan Edwards,” he said. “I just think he’s probably the best player in the league.”