Daily Mirror (Northern Ireland)
IT’S EASY STREET7 AFTER GOAL GLUT
Gilkinson delighted to see boys take their chances
from the lads.”
While Hill Street haven’t set any targets this season, Gilkinson says there is a growing belief within the squad that they can go all the way in Division 1.
“We haven’t set out any specific targets apart from being consistent. If we do that, and I think we have shown that recently, then we will be up challenging. We will be there or thereabouts,” he added.
“But there are about four or five other teams probably saying the same thing. There are some really good teams and good players in this division.
“All it takes is for one or two injuries and suddenly you’re under pressure.
“So there is a long way to go and we will take it one game at a time.
“There is a bit of confidence with the guys but we won’t get carried away with it. We have a couple of tough matches coming up, starting with Coalisland this weekend.
“We went five games unbeaten last season before it all ended early. We had a wee bit of confidence from that. “But then Covid hit hard and it was tough getting players back for this season. Our pre-season was probably the toughest I can remember. Trying to motivate players to get out of the house.
“We only lost one player, young Cameron Purdy who went to Glenavon. So we kept our squad together and added to it.
“The last two weeks are probably the only times we have had a full squad to choose from, so that hopefully bodes well.
“I think there is a belief in the squad that we can do well this season.
“This is our third season in charge, but this is probably the first season we have had a proper go at it because of the previous Covid issues.”
Hill Street face a tough test on the road at the weekend when they travel to Coalisland Athletic who sit a point above them in the table – leaders Newmills are also on their travels at seaside club Annalong.
We always felt things would click and someone would take a heavy beating.