Shiels Underlines January Transfer Window’s Importance for Coleraine

Following Coleraine’s 3-0 defeat by league leaders Linfield in the Irish Premiership on Saturday, manager Dean Shiels acknowledged that his team “gave it a go but it just wasn’t good enough.” Shiels also admitted that the upcoming January transfer window will be crucial for his “patched up” squad. Matthew Fitzpatrick’s 29th-minute goal provided “the Blues” with a 1-0 lead at half-time. While Coleraine experienced moments of opportunity in the third quarter, a superb effort from Joel Cooper and Fitzpatrick’s second goal ultimately sealed a comfortable victory for the home side. “We came here knowing it was going to be difficult. We gave it a go but it just wasn’t good enough,” Shiels told BBC Sport Northern Ireland. He also expressed that he was “glad of” the break from competitive action Coleraine will now have until Boxing Day. “We’re really patched up at the minute. It’s difficult especially when we’re asking young players to come in.” Shiels highlighted the developmental benefits for younger players, adding, “What Senan Devine got out of playing against Joel Cooper today and Fitzpatrick will be great. I thought Corey Smith at 19 was outstanding. Kyle Spence who hasn’t played in months came on and did well.” Shiels further stated that “a lot of hard work” has already been undertaken in securing new playing personnel for next month. He concluded, “We’re delighted about how that’s looking but we still have two games left before there can be any movement in that regard.”