Down club welcome Burnley and Bradford striker to their attack

FORMER Burnley and Bradford City attacker Shay McCartan is helping the Glenn charge as they try to make it a 2020 to remember.

McCartan was released by Bradford in May and whilst on the hunt for a new club, he has linked up with Tony Bagnall and the Glenn squad. The player was viewed as a future Down star before the professional sport took him on a different path.

He hit a hat-trick for Down minors in their famous championship game against Armagh in 2011. They led 5-1 to 0-5 early in the second half but ended up losing by a point.

Having impressed in a number of challenge games, McCartan was handed a start in Glenn’s league opener against Saul last weekend.

The home side were a goal down at the break, but in the 38th minute McCartan took possession, held firm after taking a shoulder, sent a player flying with a beautiful dummy and fired to the corner of the net to help them to a 1-10 to 1-8 win.

Bagnall’s men have a bye in Division 2A this week so they will meet Annaclone, who have a bye in Division 2B.

A championship meeting with Bryansford awaits in a few weeks’ time. It is understood that McCartan is still open to returning to the soccer scene, but Paddy Tally will be keeping check.

By Niall McCoy

n.mccoy@gaeliclife.com