Loughgall boss Dean Smith isn’t planning for life without goal ace Benji Magee

Coleraine 1 Loughgall 3

Dean Smith plans to keep hold of Benji Magee

Loughgall manager Dean Smith insists he isn’t concerned about rumoured interest in star man Benji Magee.

The talented striker netted his 14th Premiership goal of the season as the Villagers beat Coleraine at The Showgrounds, where Nathaniel Ferris struck a double for the away side after Davy McDaid had dragged the Bannsiders level early in the second-half.

It is believed Glentoran are heavily interested in bringing Magee back to The BetMcLean Oval but Smith remarked he plans to have the 21-year-old at his disposal alongside new arrivals after the January transfer window closes.

He said: “We would like to bring some in and, like every club, you’re looking to strengthen.

“We want to keep what we have and try to build on it.

“We will have a look and see what’s about.

“I’m not really concerned about clubs being interested in our players as it means you’re doing something right.”

Smith was delighted to see his players regain the lead after McDaid had equalised for the hosts on 51 minutes.

“I thought our players were fantastic and stuck to our game plan,” he added.

“The best thing you can do once you concede is to try and score and thankfully we were able to do that.

“That gave us a platform to go on and build on.

“Nathaniel dispatched his penalty well and I think from then on, we ran out worthy winners.”

The loss marked a fourth successive defeat for Coleraine and left Oran Kearney’s men within touching distance of top-six-chasing Carrick Rangers, Glenavon and Loughgall just below them in the Premiership standings.

“We haven’t particularly enjoyed this season,” admitted the Bannsiders boss.

“It’s pretty simple in what we’re missing, even at the back in