RUAIDHRI Higgins voiced his delight with the balance of his squad as the Bannsiders take on Crusaders this afternoon…

A busy summer on the north coast culminated with the arrivals of Rowan McDonald and Zane Okoro from Waterford and Lincoln City (loan) respectively.

They were joined by business done earlier in the transfer window as Higgins begins to put his own stamp on proceedings.

When asked about what McDonald and Okoro can bring to his side in particular, Higgins replied: “Being able to add the two lads that we did, both bring versatility and quality, different types of players.

“Rowan is only 23 but has really good experience and can play in a number of different roles, particularly with how we play. If you only have a battle he can do that, if you want to play he can play.

“Zane is just a real attacking young talent who Lincoln rates extremely highly.

“A really talented young man, you can see that already. If you look outside of Lewis McGregor, we needed another one of that ilk who stretches the game, who can go on the outside, who can get us up the pitch.

“We needed another one of them and he certainly does that – I’m really excited to work with them, both of them.

“We’re delighted with the business we’ve done in this window.”

Crusaders pose the next threat for Higgins’ men this afternoon and the Bannsiders boss knows the Hatchetmen have men in danger areas who his troops need to be wary of.

“I know that they have attacking players that can hurt you, they’ve got real energy and youthfulness in forward areas,” he added.

“If you look at Bryden and Brooks and Dunlop and lads like that…they can really hurt you at any given time.

“If we’re not at it defensively, they’ll score goals because you’ve seen their capabilities of scoring goals.

“You look at the first half performance in particular, on the opening day they were brilliant. I know they didn’t see it through but it was a glimpse of what they’re capable of and we need to be ready for it.

“But we also need to go and stamp our own authority and our own style on the game as well.”