Watson eyes trophies after extending Larne stay

LARNE have continued their preparations for next season by extending Albert Watson’s contract.

The 34-year-old former Linfield defender arrived at Inver Park in June 2019, following his second stint with Ballymena United.

Confirmation of his new deal follows news of Conor Mckendry’s new contract and the arrival of Josh Robinson.

“I want to win something and achieve something with Larne and I know we are very close,” said Watson.

“Maybe a couple of more pieces of the jigsaw will see us right up there.”

Larne boss Tiernan Lynch added: “Albert showed all of his experience and leadership skills last season and was a big part of the spine of our team.

“We are delighted to keep him at Inver Park and feel he will be a big part of what we hoping to do over the next year.”

Meanwhile, former Linfield favourite Michael Gault, now manager of Ballymacash Rangers, says he’s hugely impressed with the new floodlit 3G pitch in Lisburn his side can now perform on.

The Ballymacash Sports Academy has been the driving force behind the facility with funding assistance received by the Army Covenant Fund, The Co-op Foundation, Alpha Programme, Department for Communities and the Ulster Community Investment Trust (now known as Community Finance Ireland).

Gault said: “It’s great to play on and looks fantastic. It’s up there with the best surfaces I’ve played on if not the best.”

Communities Minister Carál Ni Chuilin added: “I am delighted to see the project completed and available for use, especially at this time, when local communities have faced so many challenges as a result of the Covid19 restrictions.”