Friel departs on loan

COLERAINE FC can confirm that Cathair Friel has joined Dungannon Swifts on loan…

The Limavady man makes the switch to Stangmore Park on a loan deal until the end of the season.

The striker made the move to The Showgrounds in the summer from Ballymena United and has scored six goals in 23 appearances – most notably a hat-trick in the BetMcLean League Cup win against Bangor.

Friel also bagged three times in the Premiership as he netted against Ballymena United, Glentoran and Dungannon Swifts.

Speaking to colerainefc.com, boss Oran Kearney highlighted that Friel’s need for more time on the pitch was a major part in the deal being agreed.

“Cathair came to the club in the summer and progressed but unfortunately suffered an injury which means he is down the pecking order,” he said.

“At his age, Cathair needs to play and he is keen to do that and I’ve no doubt he can make a serious impact whilst at Dungannon.

“We will monitor his progress closely and re-assess the situation in the summer.”