Orangefield OB could well increase their fan base next season – especially from Northern Ireland's GAWA – well, possibly their older members at least.
The reason being is that the Amateur League Division 1A club has just appointed a managerial team who are all closely linked to the current NI Veterans set-up.
Following a rocky couple of seasons the Cregagh-based outfit seemed to have found their feet under Graeme Arthurs who had built up a decent squad before an exit of players to other clubs stymied the former Crusaders striker's appetite for management.
The club also had a flirtation with relegation in the most recent campaign and they will be now hoping that the appointment of former Malachians, Islandmagee and Crewe United manager Gerry Goodall and his team will take them in a new direction.
Most recently Gerry has been closely involved with Glenavy Youth, from where coach Aaron Heasley will be joining him – however, the overriding link for the new Orangefield men is the fact that they are all still involved in active football with the Northern Ireland Veterans.
Assisting Gerry will be former UUJ boss, Fra Miskelly, while along with Heasley, Sam Wright comes in from Drumbo and Charlie Lewsley from Moira Albion.
“I've known all the lads for some time and would have seen them regularly at our midweek get togethers at Ballynahinch and Knockbreda so I think we'll compliment each other,” said Gerry.
“I'm already busy organising friendlies for the new season and talking to a number of players, either still at the club are who had moved on, and the feedback has been positive so hopefully we'll be in a position to be up and running when the new season comes round.”
