OLD HAND CAMPBELL BACK

STRIKER Ryan “Rocket” Campbell “couldn’t turn down” the opportunity to rejoin Ballinamallard United this summer out of his respect for the club and boss Harry Mcconkey.

The experienced striker is now 37 and in his third spell at Ferney Park but he insists he is still loving the game and is showing no signs of slowing down yet.

“When Harry gave me the opportunity to return to the club I couldn’t turn it down,” Campbell explained to Match On Tuesday.

“This is a great local club with a family community and I’ve had a close connection to them for years, I’ve a lot of respect for the club and for Harry.

“I know I’m getting on a bit in my age but I’m keeping up with the younger guys still and the training has been brilliant.

“Even though results have been tough for us this season and we have had our heads down at points, we know what we are capable of and that we can turn it around.

“I’ve been training two nights a week and playing every Saturday since I’ve been a 14-year-old so I’ve no intentions of giving up yet. As long as I still feel fit enough and am enjoying the game as I am right now I will be continuing for as long as possible.”

Campbell returned to the club from fellow Championship side Dergview but the Mallards are not just relying on experience, with several of the striker’s teammates less than half his age!

“Harry is a big believer in youth opportunities,” added Campbell.

“Sean Mcavoy is our right-back and is only 16, Sam Robb is 17, Michael Glynn is another 16-year-old defender while Darragh Mcbrien was our man of the match on Saturday and he’s only 16 too.

“Those players have been outstanding when they have been given their chances and it’s great for them to be coming through.”

The forward typically found the net as Ballinamallard defeated H&W Welders 2-0 on Saturday in the Co Fermanagh’s side first win since the opening day of the season.

“It was a three points we badly needed,” continued Campbell.

“The players wanted to give something back to the boss Harry and the two main coaches Craig and