Article: published on 6 August 2024

Loughgall secured a creditable ninth position in their first season back in the leading division.

Under boss Dean Smith, who was named Manager of the Year at the NI Football Awards, the Villagers will be looking to secure their place as a top flight side once again with at least a similar finish this time out.

For now, they've managed to keep hold of Young Player of the Year Benji Magee, who scored 16 league goals in an impressive season, whilst signing experienced Irish League players in the form of Conor McDermott and Conor McCloskey, plus ex-Derry City goalkeeper Nathan Gartside from Cliftonville.

Transfers In: Conor Kerr, Conor McCloskey, Conor McDermott, Lewis Francis, Nathan Gartside.

Transfers Out: Ally Teggart [retired], Caolan Loughran, Daniel Devine, James Carroll, Mark Carson.

Joel Taggart's take: Last season Loughgall had banked 20 points by November so manager Smith will be looking for a repeat of that flying start once again.

If Benji Magee is still at Lakeview Park when the transfer window closes then their chances of survival for another season are pretty good with him and Nathaniel Ferris scoring over 30 goals between them last season.

Opening fixtures: 17/8 - Carrick Rangers (h); 20/8 - Portadown (h); 24/8 - Linfield (a); 31/8 - Dungannon Swifts (h)