Change of position helping McKendry

CONOR McKendry admits he is feeling “sharp” after a productive pre-season was rewarded with a starring role in the opening night win against Ballymena United…

The winger put in an eye-catching performance as he provided the two assists for Matthew Shevlin’s brace against the Sky Blues.

The Bannsiders had to come from behind to earn the three points against Jim Ervin’s men and McKendry believes the hard work from everyone in the squad since returning to training paid off.

He said: “I think it showed how sharp we were going into the season as the work we’ve put into pre-season has helped a long way.

“After going a goal down, we showed character to come back and lead 2-1 and we could have scored a few more which made it harder for ourselves.

“However, we managed to hold on and get the result.

“I think I’ve had a good pre-season.

“I’ve scored a few goals and with the change of position, I’ve probably got a lot more of the ball and getting at players more.

“I feel sharp but I could say that about a lot of the boys out there.”

Like every attacker, the 24-year-old knows he will be analysed on his numbers in terms of goals and assists as he prepares for tonight’s visit to Loughgall.

“I think adding numbers to your game is what you’re judged on,” he continued.

“I probably haven’t been putting the ball into the box as much over the last two seasons.

“Shevy and Davy have told me to put the ball into the box, don’t worry about how you’ve crossed it, just get it in.

“That’s what I’ve done and Shevy has been on the receiving end of both of them.

“We don’t really know what we’re going into down there.

“We’ve enjoyed tonight after the first 15 minutes and we just need to focus on getting another win next Friday.”