Celtic manager Malone now wants team to push on for promotion

Lurgan Celtic manager Colin Malone has finished his business in the transfer window and now wants his team to push on for promotion.
Stephen Hutchinson has signed for Lurgan Celtic.Stephen Hutchinson has signed for Lurgan Celtic.
Stephen Hutchinson has signed for Lurgan Celtic.

The latest to join the Hoops is former Newry City centre half Stephen Hutchinson.

With Adam Rodgers and Josh Barton completing Malone’s January recruitment drive it gives the Lurgan club a boost as they bid to hold onto top spot in Championship 2.

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“We brought three in and three go out with Chris Coleman going to Dromara Village, Caloan Campbell has joined Silverwood and Barry Seeley is concentrating on his gaelic,” said Malone.

“Stephen Hutchinson played in the Irish League under Pat McGibbon at Newry and I believe he is a good capture for us.

“He played in the friendly against Glenavon last week and looked the part.

“I am happy with the squad we have now and any areas I felt we needed to strengthen has been done.

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“We are in a strong position, the best position of all the teams to push on now and win promotion.

“It will not be easy. I expect Annagh United and Sport & Leisure to make a big push but I’m confident we can see it out.

“From what we have played against so far I feel we have the best squad, but it is up to the players to go out and fulfil that potential and get the results.

“There are a cluster of teams on 24 points and they are all capable of putting together a good run, so we cannot take anything for granted.”

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This week the Hoops forsake league action to play an Intermediate Cup game away to Championship 1 side Knockbreda Parish and fans please note the kick-off is 1.30pm.

Celtic’s new signing Stephen Hutchinson from Rathfriland Rangers is anticipated to make his first team debut away against Tobermore Unitd on 31st January.

Also falling victim to the weather was the Youth teams Mid Ulster Cup tie at Kernan against Portadown and this will now be played on Saturday at Lurgan Town Arena with a 10.00am start.

As this is the second postponement the game now gives Lurgan Celtic home advantage.