BEITH boss Frank Lynch snapped up Junior Scotland hit man Stevie Convery last night - but insists he's more concerned about shutting up shop next term.
The former Arthurlie chief took over the reins at the Ayrshire club late last season and instantly identified the defence as an area he needed to improve.
The Bellsdale Park outfit had rattled in 60 league goals to top the Super League division one score charts - but it still wasn't enough to take them up.
However, Lynch - who ended the season with just one defender - has already made giant strides to rectify the situation.
He said: "Ian Fulton was our only recognised defender, but we've already strengthened in that department - as well as in midfield and up front.
"It's vital we keep the back door firmly closed. We'll achieve nothing if we show any signs of weakness in defence."
In his quest to sign Convery, whom he had already taken to Dunterlie Park, Lynch, pictured right, was forced to play the waiting game - although he got his man in the end.
He explained: "There was a contractual situation with Arthurlie and we had to sit tight, but we eventually landed Stevie and there was no fee involved, which was a big bonus.
"He is three years younger than Stevie Mallan and look at the job he did for Talbot last season. If our Stevie can remain injury free then he can be a big, big player for us.
"As can Martin McGarvey, who was chased by every major junior club in the West the moment he let it be known he would be available at the end of the season.
"Martin is 34 but he'll bring invaluable experience and unbelievable skill to the side. He will also revel in the superb playing surface we have at Bellsdale."
However, Lynch is well aware that skill alone won't be enough for Beith to realise their dream of playing Premier League football in the very near future.
He said: "The first division is a very Ayrshire-orientated league and will be extremely physical. Last season Beith played some lovely football at home but struggled against the tougher teams on their travels.
"I've tried to bulk up the squad so they are ready for the physical challenge which will no doubt await us when we play our away matches."
Lynch is still on the look-out for a left-sided player after missing out on both Gary Wilson (Pollok) and Graham Dale (Auchinleck) although he is currently talking to an ex-senior about a move to Ayrshire.
And the wily gaffer has placed Neil Shearer (ex-Scottish Cup winning captain), one-time Killie defender James Lundie and former Morton goalkeeper Keith Ross on the transfer list.
Lynch has ordered his players in for pre-season on Monday night and will thus begin the long road to the Super Premier League - although he has received no 'must-achieve targets' from his new committee.
He stressed: "Any pressures that might be on me and my backroom team have been put there by nobody other than ourselves. We are hungry for success. "
Meanwhile, Beith secretary John Boal has fixed up three home friendlies, starting with Buckie Thistle on Saturday July 15.
Next up is Rangers Under-21s seven days later (11am) and Clydebank the following Wednesday. Clubs interested in the transfer-listed Beith trio can call John on 07831 724969.
Publication date 21/06/06
