BRFC TV: Committed McKinlay pleased with Hibs draw
Berwick Rangers TV’s Eric Tait caught up with new ‘Gers signing Kevin McKinlay following Berwick’s 1-1 draw with Hibernian on Tuesday evening, and the defender was quick to praise the set-up at Shielfield Park.
“One of the things that surprised me was the club’s facilities as it is really rare, especially the training park behind Shielfield (Old Shielfield).
“The main pitch is looking great and we have great training facilities as well, so I’m really impressed all round to be honest!”
The defender also revealed that his commitment involves a longer commute than most other players in the squad.
“I live about 40 minutes away from where we train which isn’t too bad. To Berwick it’s about an hour and a half, but it’s all a part of the game. If you want to keep playing football you have to be committed.
“I spoke to John and I was keen to come down here. Travel doesn’t really matter to me as long as I enjoy my football.”
The defender impressed against Neil Lennon’s side on Tuesday, with manager John Coughlin noting his admiration for Kevin’s attitude in a different BRFC TV interview:
“Kevin has been out for a long time with a hamstring injury, but he’s a really determined character, as anyone close to the pitch probably heard!”
But despite the praise, the ‘Gers defender also quick to praise his teammates for the show they put on against the Europa League side.
“I just think you have to look at the boys’ team spirit. I thought we were excellent, we were compact, we stayed together, we passed when we had to pass.
“There are little things there that we can fix, but it’s still early doors and I’m sure the gaffer will work on that, but all round I thought the team’s spirit was excellent.
“And I think it showed out on the pitch, drawing against a Championship team, and Hibs obviously have a new manager as well, so they’ll have come well-organised and it’s a credit to the boys that we got a draw out of that game.”
The result came despite a shaky start to the game with the ‘Gers conceding after 12 seconds, but McKinlay revealed that he’d remained composed despite going a goal down so early.
“These things happen. You’ve just got to keep at it and force your way back into the game. We had a few chances ourself to go on and win. We obviously expected them to come at us and they did, but all in all I thought the lads did great and I’m sure the fans will be happy with what they saw out there.”
Kevin’s home and away kit sponsorship for the 2016/17 season is still available from our online store and is priced at £80 per kit. Our supporters receive a signed photo of Kevin, in addition to their name (or business name) on the profile pages of our award-winning programme and official website, in addition to the footer of all relevant news items on the player. To show your support, click here.
