G feeling fitter than ever

GARETH McConaghie is loving life with Coleraine as he looks ahead to tomorrow night’s trip to Larne…

By: Michael Anderson

The defender has nailed down a regular starting spot alongside skipper Stephen O’Donnell at the centre of defence.

That, combined with the team’s recent good form, has made him in buoyant mood, as he prepares for a tough test at Inver Park.

“From a personal point of view things are going well and I’m probably fitter and stronger than I have been before,” said Gareth.

“Last season I was struggling with a knee injury. I just didn’t feel right and probably didn’t look right to the fans.

“It was a patella tendon problem but I got a couple of injections and a good pre season behind me and I’ve got myself back in the team.”

McConaghie has played a key role in Coleraine’s return to form but is well aware he has to maintain his current levels.

“I’m starting regularly and Stevie (O’Donnell) and I are helping keep clean sheets.

“But there are four or five top central defenders at the club.

“Everyone can have an off day but if you do you know you risk losing your place.

“All I can do is keep working hard and staying focused.”

And as his attention turns to the midweek clash, he believes the Bannsiders have nothing to fear against high flying Larne.

“As long as we are well set up and each person does their jobs then I have belief we will get a result,” he added.

“Larne will play a lot of football and we expect them to have a lot of possession.

“Their movement off the ball is probably the best in the league.

“But we’re coming off four wins on the bounce and our mindset is completely different to when they beat us at the Showgrounds.

“We were on a bad run then but we’re in a better place and it’s a big game we’re ready for.”