Glentoran manager Billy Clarke believes that having a stronger squad was key to his side winning the Women’s Premiership title.
The Glens beat Crusaders 2-0 at Seaview on Wednesday night to seal their first top-flight success in six years.
“Last year we were going well in August, but we had a smaller squad and lost a number of games in a row after we got a few injuries,” he said.
“This year our aim was to get a bigger squad and go for the league title.
“We signed a few quality players and have a squad of 22, meaning there were girls who didn’t get on the pitch against Crusaders, or even get in the squad.
“But they are a really good, tight group of players. If someone comes out, a quality player goes in and we don’t really miss them as much because the replacements coming in have such quality.”
The victory over the Crues, thanks to goals from Sam Kelly and Sarah Connolly, was secured in challenging conditions in north Belfast but it meant the Glens got their hands on the trophy with a game to spare.
Clarke felt his side deserved the win at Seaview and insisted it is important that the players enjoy their success before looking ahead to the Irish Cup in January and the Champions League next season.