Rodney McAree embraces the headaches as high-flying Dungannon Swifts look to strengthen grip on second place
Rodney McAree has welcomed a potential selection headache as his Dungannon Swifts side prepare to face Glenavon tonight. The high-flying Swifts lost striker Andrew Mitchell in the warm-up ahead of their game against Crusaders last Saturday.
But despite the loss of their experienced frontman Dungannon put the Crues to the sword running out 5-1 winners at Seaview as fellow forwards Brandon Bermingham and Tomas Galvin took their opportunity with both hands.
Recent signing Bermingham bagged his second goal in as many games with Galvin coming off the bench to notch a brace including a spectacular free-kick. John McGovern, who started the game, also helped himself to another two goals, with McAree quick to praise the players for grabbing their chance with both hands.
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"It's a good headache to have and to be fair to the boys they were obviously disappointed to be on the bench but they showed the right reaction when they got their opportunity," said the Swifts boss. "From a manager's point of view you want options and headaches. We are weighing in with goals from different areas. Andrew Mitchell missed out against Crusaders but now we have a decision to make on Friday night.
"We lost Mitch in the warm up last week as he tweaked his shoulder. We took him out as we didn't want to do any more harm, but when you've the likes of Brandon and Tomas available it makes those decisions a bit easier. Brandon has been brilliant in the two games so far, he's contributed with two goals so far. Tomas came off the bench on Saturday and scored two good goals including a superb free kick.
"I was delighted for him because he's probably been lacking a bit of confidence, but he shouldn't because he's a quality player and a great kid to work with."
The win at Seaview moved the Swifts back up to second in the table as their impressive form so far this season. Now they have the chance to show everyone what they're made of as the BBC cameras come to town for tonight's clash with the Lurgan Blues. McAree is relishing the chance for his side to play in a televised game but he knows it won't be easy against Paddy McLaughlin's side, who have turned the corner since his appointment.
"It's great it gives everyone a platform to go out and show what we can do," said McAree. "It's not going to be easy, Paddy has Glenavon going in the right direction. They have a lot of energy in their team and they're working extremely hard for each other.
"We know it will be another competitive game against a side looking to pick up three points. We're in a good place at this moment in time and we want to try and make sure that continues. There's a great bunch of guys in the changing room, there's a fantastic team spirit but there's also a lot of quality within the group as well."
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