'We can win the Premier Divison in the next few seasons' - Rory Kirk has confidence in Lisahally's ability

Having toiled for years, Lisahally have finally found their feet after promotion from the First Division, writes former manager

THE BIG DOG'S BARK
by Rory Kirk

After at least ten years in Division One, Lisahally now seem to have settled in to life in the Premier Division. The reason for this, I believe, is due to a number of factors.

The current crop of players is a very talented bunch. They have all come through at the same time and are all around the same age. This is something that we haven't had in a long time and is the basis of a good team.

There is also a different attitude regarding Lisahally these days and I believe that it began two seasons ago when myself and Danny Brown instilled belief and discipline into the squad. We tried to make the team into winners with a 'never say die' attitude, while also stressing the importance of the playing for the fans and we were successful in doing this, as can be seen from the fact that we won the double, gaining promotion. And after last season's early blip (and my moment of madness) Lisah' are back doing what was started when I took charge.

Sometimes the progress we made is overlooked but the recent development is great to see - we have come a long way. I actually believe that we will win the Premier Division in the next few seasons but we need every player to give 100 per cent dedication, heart and belief to achieve it. We can have no superstars at Lisahally and as long as players keep grounded they will achieve their goals. We also need every player to realise that Lisahally is not simply 90 minutes on a Sunday - it is with you for life and if losing doesn't bother you, then you're at the wrong club.


We played for many seasons in recent times with a basic team, but we loved it. We were a team of battlers who gave everything for Lisahally and the legendary Topher. One of the best memories I have of my time with Lisah' was Topher's face the night we won the cup in 2008. It was a true reward the dedication that we put in over the years. These kind of memories are what Lisahally is about and should never be forgotten. Hopefully this new team will give us plenty of memories in the upcoming years.


Lisahally's success is also due to the fans and without them we would have nothing. It is them who you play for and what great days and nights they have given us.


Keep barking 'Wee Doggs' and the good times aren't far away.
Woof woof, Big Dogg.