Kincaid ‘doubtful’ he will add to squad

The former Ards manager has been active in bringing new faces to Inver this summer with Ballyclare trio William Wharry, Scott Irvine and Andy Simms and Ards’ Ryan Berry among those to have put pen to paper with the local club.

But speaking to the Times, Kincaid this week revealed: “Given the tight budget under which we are operating, I am doubtful if we will be adding many players to it. But, as anyone who knows me would expect, I will always do everything in my power to get my man should I see a player who will add something special to my team.”

Last Saturday club officials, management, players and supporters took part in a mixed match at Inver Park. It was never intended to be anything other than part of a fun day out but it, arguably, was as important as any of the pre-season games this summer, according to the Reds boss.

“It was all about having a bit of craic and enabling the players and management to bond with the supporters and the goal was achieved in a very successful manner,” he said.

“Myself and Neil Candlish (assistant manager) played for the supporters’ team and it was all very enjoyable with a few of the first-team players switching sides and joining us for the latter part of the game.

“It ended 6-6 and then both sides took 11 penalties, with the supporters’ team marginally ending victorious on the day.

“But, as I said, essentially it was about having a bit of fun and ensuring that everybody enjoyed the banter and it certainly was a success in that respect. I think the supporters will have learned much about the players and vice versa.

“And I think it would be remiss of me not to thank all the fans for what was a really happy occasion which will undoubtedly be repeated in future seasons.

“This week the pre-season opposition comes in the most contrasting way possible, provided by two Premier League clubs – Ballymena United were set to come down on Tuesday night and, after training on Thursday night, it will be Lisburn Distillery at home on Saturday afternoon.

“On Monday night we have another training session, with a match against Rathfern Rangers on Tuesday night and then a short trip on the Thursday night, August 2, to play Wellington Rec and the last game on Saturday 4th at home to Rosario.

Larne face a trip to Glebe Rangers in the opening round of the Irn-Bru League Cup on Tuesday, August 14. If Kincaid’s men progress it will set up a second-round tie with Crusaders at the end of August.

n The lotto numbers for Larne Football Club this week are 10, 16 and 24. There were no winners.Next week’s jackpot is £950.