Connolly loving life at Oriel Park 

By Gareth Danaher (@GarethDanaher)

Flying winger Dylan Connolly joined Dundalk a month ago after a season and a half playing for Bray Wanderers. Since joining Stephen Kenny’s side Connolly has made two starts against Bohemians and Shamrock Rovers, and also made a UEFA Champions League debut in the home leg against Rosenborg.

It was the chance to play in big games on a regular basis that tempted the young winger to throw in his lot with the Lilywhites, one he’s really hoping to take.

I caught up with Connolly recently and asked him what was the best thing about joining Dundalk. Connolly said, “I really love the professionalism at Dundalk. Every player works extremely hard, both on and off the pitch, and it drives you to become better.”

“I feel more motivated than ever before. I always love the large crowds that come out and support us and there’s nothing better than playing in front of a packed Oriel Park crowd,” something he wasn’t used to when playing at the Carlisle Grounds.

I asked him what he hoped to achieve during his time at the club. Dylan said,

“I just want to put my head down, work hard and achieve as much as possible. I’m here for the next two and a half years and I want to be successful in that period, and I’ll make sure I am.”

Connolly made his European football debut in the first leg against Rosenborg at Oriel Park, coming off the bench to replace Michael Duffy on 72 minutes in the 1-1 draw. He said, “I got a small taste of European football this year and it’s something I want to taste every year, the buzz of the competition is incredible and as a player you want to be a part of that.”

We also spoke about the possibility of heading back over to play in the UK, after a 2-year spell at Ipswich Town saw him fail to make a appearance for the club, “You ask me about England, and to be honest with you, I’m not thinking about anything other than Dundalk, because if I do that I won’t be focused on my job for Dundalk. So all I want is to do as well as I can for the town and hopefully be successful.”

Photo Credit: Dundalk FC