Owens relishing Sky Blues chance
KYLE Owens is disappointed he wasn’t able to shine brighter at Crusaders but he’s determined to show his class again with Ballymena United.
The big defender has rejoined the Sky Blues on a loan deal until the end of the season and the brother of Crues’ record goalscorer Jordan says the move is all about precious game time.
“I thought I would have played more at the Crues and I had a conversation with Stephen (Baxter) about my game time,” said Owens.
“Unfortunately, I didn’t get a good run of games to impress. Now is the right time to go out on loan and play.
“The quality in the Crues squad is mad. You have about 20 players there who would play in most teams. It’s just hard to get your chance because of the quality Stephen has.
“I got a few opportunities at the Crues and I felt I did well, but they have a strong squad.
“Any footballer will tell you, you need to be playing and it’s all about game time to stay fit and strong.
“It was a surprise to find out Ballymena United were interested in me again but I need to get away and play games.
“It’s all about playing to build your confidence.
“When you’re not playing, you lose a bit of interest as well as sharpness.”
It’s a new challenge in Kyle’s career but at least he’s walking into a very familiar environment.
“I felt it was right to go back to Davy (Jeffrey) and Bryan (McLaughlin) to take on a fresh challenge,” he added.
“It’s a good opportunity to get my season started at a club I know well. Ballymena United haven’t been as consistent in the league as last season but hopefully I can help them perform better.
“There’s a few new faces at the club but most of the changing room hasn’t changed since I left.
“We want to finish as high as we can in the table and hopefully keep going in the Irish Cup. I can’t play in the County Antrim Shield final but hopefully the lads can win it next week. I didn’t play against Dundela for the Crues in the Irish Cup so my understanding is I’m eligible to play for United in the Irish Cup.
“I’ve another year on my Crues contract but I’ll weigh up my options in the summer.”