Cooney: 'Fuel for the Fire' Ahead of Ballymena United Clash

Glentoran's Ryan Cooney vows to channel disappointment from a 2-1 loss to Linfield into motivation for Friday's Ballymena United match. Jordan Stewart's suspension leaves Declan Devine's side without a key scorer, while Ballymena's summer signings spark optimism.

Cooney Vows to Turn Defeat into Motivation

Glentoran's Ryan Cooney insists his side must use the disappointment of a 2-1 Premiership defeat to Linfield as 'fuel for the fire' ahead of Friday's trip to Ballymena United. The Glens, who fell to Darragh Leahy and Kirk Millar's goals at Windsor Park, will be without suspended striker Jordan Stewart, who netted in both of their opening league games. Cooney emphasized the need to bounce back after the loss to rivals, stating: 'We have to use the disappointment as fuel for the fire and make sure we are raring to go again.' The midfielder highlighted the team's frustration with their performance, noting they 'didn't play like we know we can' against Linfield.

Ballymena's Recruitment Sparks Confidence

Ballymena United, who have finished eighth or below in each of the last seven Premiership seasons, are tipped to challenge for a top-half finish after a strong summer of signings. Manager Oran Kearney has bolstered the squad with title-winning players like Chris McKee, Josh Archer, and Scot Whiteside. Cooney praised the Sky Blues' recruitment, calling them 'a side packed with quality players who can hurt you if you let them.' The visitors began their campaign with a 3-0 victory over Linfield, a result Cooney expects to be replicated in the upcoming clash.