DYLAN Boyle says he is embracing the strong competition for places in the squad ahead of the Bannsiders’ trip to Carrick Rangers this afternoon…

Ruaidhri Higgins’ side are on the road for the second time this season as they lock horns against a Carrick side who have won their opening two games so far.

Boyle has been an ever-present figure so far this season – including featuring in both legs of the Conference League tie against HJK Helsinki – and he knows he needs to be at the top of his game if he is to remain in the starting line-up.

“We are going to need everyone over the course of the season,” he said.

“That competitive nature within the squad can only be beneficial for us.

“When you even look at the attacking players we have, and the calibre of player we have in our front line, you can tell already the competition.

“Even in training there’s a competitive nature to it which can only benefit us in the long run.”

As previously mentioned, Coleraine are the visitors to Taylors Avenue this afternoon and Boyle

He added: “You know what you’re always going to get when you go down to Carrick.

“They’ve got experienced players there and they’ve got quality in attacking areas as well.

“No games are easy in this league and you can see that the part-time teams have all invested in the window but we will go down there with the mentality of leaving with all three points.”

Supporters can get tickets for today’s game HERE.