Watson searching for signings 
during Town’s three-week break

Banbridge Town boss Ryan Watson says he intends to use his side’s three week break to try and bolster his squad.
Banbridge Town were beaten by Newington in extra-time last Tuesday. Paul Byrne Photography INBL1433-209PBBanbridge Town were beaten by Newington in extra-time last Tuesday. Paul Byrne Photography INBL1433-209PB
Banbridge Town were beaten by Newington in extra-time last Tuesday. Paul Byrne Photography INBL1433-209PB

Due to Chimney Corner’s late resignation from the league, Town have a free Saturday this weekend and also have no scheduled fixture the following week.

However, with the team struck by injuries, Watson is glad of break and says he’s actively searching for new additions to his threadbare squad.

“We have two weeks now before the window closes and our squad is light again,” he said. “I’ll be working hard to get in new faces if at all possible. It’s hard to get the right people but I’ll be actively trying to improve the squad.

Mark Teggart in action against Newington. Pic: Paul Byrne Photography INBL1433-207PBMark Teggart in action against Newington. Pic: Paul Byrne Photography INBL1433-207PB
Mark Teggart in action against Newington. Pic: Paul Byrne Photography INBL1433-207PB

“The break has come at a good time. With a few players out injured, it’ll be good to have a bit of time to get them back in.

“We’re all determined to work hard over the next few weeks and then be ready to give it another go come September.”

Town go into the break off the back of a stunning result away to Lurgan Celtic, who have signed a raft of experienced players and are fancied to challenge for the title.

“That was more like us,” said a delighted Watson after the game.

“It probably took a lot of people by surprise but we know what we are capable of as a team. The team spirit we have at the minute is hard to beat.

“It was a fantastic performance and result, especially given the circumstances. We had two players away on holidays and another two or three out injured.

“Our squad was really tested but the players all showed everything that we are about; effort, commitment, team spirit and organisation.

“We showed signs of that type of performance against Newington but we needed that performance and result.

“Before the game, we’d probably have been happy with a point but we had a game plan to bring something home from the game. To score three goals in the first half after being one down was fantastic and was well deserved for the way we were playing.

“A lot of teams would have caved in after conceding so early but we showed unbelievable character.

“We had the better of the play. We held our shape well and everybody did exactly what they were supposed to do.”

Watson did hold over special praise for lone striker Conor Downey, who scored Town’s equaliser before setting up their second in a blistering first half display.

“Everyone was great and it’s hard to single anyone out but Conor, playing up front on his own, ran them ragged,” said the boss. “He showed great energy and touch and deserved his goal. He set up the second then with a great move. He showed great composure to cross for Martin Buchanan to finish.”

The result comes as a relief to the side who had lost their opening two games of the season.

“I never doubted it would happen,” said Watson. “When we put in that sort of effort, we know that we will get our rewards.”

Town’s next outing is on Saturday 6 September, when they travel to take on Wakehurst (kick-off 
3pm).

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