Bangor 'capable of beating anybody' - Feeney

Bangor last played in the top flight in 2009

Bangor manager Lee Feeney has said his promoted side are not expecting to be "also-rans" in their first season back in the top flight in 15 years.

It was a successful season last year for the County Down side who finished five points clear at the top of the Championship and reached the semi-finals of the Irish Cup.

"We believe we can compete with anybody on any given day," Feeney told BBC Sport NI.

"We know that we're capable of beating anybody. Whether we can do it over 38 games a season, we'll find out.

"The club have suffered a lot and it wasn't long ago they were in the Ballymena League and some of the players that are still here played in there five years ago - so credit to them, now they have the reward of playing in the Premiership.

Feeney believes the club's tough road back to the Premiership can serve as motivation in the top flight.

"These players aren't here to just be also-rans. They are going to come here and try and compete and be the best they can be because they know how hard it's been to get here. They're not going to just throw it away lightly.

After winning the Premier Intermediate title in 2023 to return to the second tier, former Bangor player Feeney helped the side secure promotion back to the top flight for the first time since 2009.

However, he has admitted that pre-season hasn't been an easy one, especially in the transfer market.

"The players have worked really, really hard, but for me, as a manager, it has been frustrating trying to get players in because essentially we're bottom of the food chain when it comes to signing players and the budgets.

"One thing I've noticed is that any players you're in for, everyone's after them. I'm used to hearing no from the player, but we've made some very decent signings, and I'm delighted with the signings we have made."

The Seasiders' first game of the season is against Cliftonville on 10 August with Feeney "delighted" that the game will be in front of the BBC cameras.

"I'm delighted for the club to get this opportunity," he added.

"I am glad we are at home and we will try to make it difficult for Cliftonville."