The value of experience

COLERAINE boss Oran Kearney was full of praise for Adam Mullan’s performance as the defender made his first appearance of the season against Crusaders last weekend…

The Limavady man – who hadn’t kicked a ball in anger during the 2020/21 campaign – was a used first-half substitute as he deputised for Stephen O’Donnell who could no longer continue due to an injury sustained in an aerial collision.

Speaking after watching his side earn a 1-0 win at Seaview through a James McLaughlin header, boss Kearney spoke of his admiration for the defender’s hard work in forcing his way back into contention.

“I mentioned it in there and I don’t normally single people out after the game but for the journey Adam has been on and for the length of time he’s been out, he’s worked tremendously hard to bring himself back to the level required,” he said.

“He’s been patient and had a number of behind closed doors friendlies to try and get him up to speed.

“He exuded quality and calmness there today when it was needed.”

Kearney highlighted the experience gained by the 25-year-old as he has already amassed over 200 appearances in the Irish League to date.

“Therein lies the value of a couple of hundred appearances and Adam making his debut for Coleraine when he was 16 and being that player now who has definitely grown and got better with every appearance,” he added.

“I say it to all the players who are out for that length of time when you watch games, and particularly when you’re at that age, I always believe you come back a better player because I think you study the game in a different way.

“You study the game slightly differently for that year that you’re out.

“Adam’s still a lot way off where he needs to be but I just thought he was nice and calm today.”

Mullan – who has won the Irish Cup and League Cup during his time at The Showgrounds – expects to be sore for a day or two after making his comeback.

“Firstly, it is good to get back,” he concluded.

“The game was really nip and tuck, but a wee bit of quality from Curtis and James’ header was a good finish.

“They had a few chances, it was end to end at times, but it’s good to get the threepoints.

“It was my first game in over a year, it was tough and I’ll certainly feel it tomorrow.

“It’s been tough missing out on games but the boys have been brilliant.

“I have been waiting patiently for my chance, so hopefully I have taken it for the last two games of the season.

“Our priority is to get into Europe now.

“The Linfield game will be tough but we can hopefully get the three points which will set us up for Larne at the end of the season.”