Kearney’s boys still a class apart
COLERAINE boss Oran Kearney has claimed back to back Manager of the Month awards.
Kearney was named BetMcLean Manager of the Month for September by Northern Ireland’s football writers after the Bannsiders enjoyed another stunning month.
Coleraine finished September unbeaten with wins over Glenavon, Ards, Carrick Rangers and Ballymena United to their name.
Kearney said: “It’s a great honour for me to win this award twice in two months and I would like to thank the football writers and Bet McLean for their support.
“It’s been an incredible few weeks for the club and we are really enjoying it, but at the same time our feet are firmly planted on the ground.
“We’re well aware that it’s the start of October and there is an awful lot of football to be played, but at this moment in time I am delighted with our performances. I couldn’t be happier for the boys. This success is a product of their hard work, so this award is as much for the players as it is for me.”
Kearney is also thrilled to see Coleraine stopper Chris Johns agree a two-year contract extension with the club. “It has been a brilliant partnership in the fact that Coleraine has been good for Chris and vice versa,” Kearney told the club’s website. “Chris arrived with a reputation and a point to prove after being courted by numerous Irish League clubs.
“We tried very hard to sign him and we had full faith in his ability. I told him that he wouldn’t be here to compete, but to be our number one goalkeeper. He has a fantastic attitude for the game and is growing into one of the best keepers in the league.”
Defender Adam Mullan has also agreed a new two-year contract extension with the club.