Ballymena United boss David Jeffrey believes Ryan Waide is unlocking his full potential in sky blue after a period of reflection at the Showgrounds.
Waide, who joined the Braidmen in 2020, has had to content himself with a supporting role from the bench in eight of his last 15 appearances.
But two goals in his last two starts, including a close range opener in last Saturday’s 1-1 draw with title chasing Glentoran, makes the 22-year-old one of Jeffrey’s in-form forwards.
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“Ryan has taken on guidance and advice and he has reaped the rewards,” said Jeffrey.
“He has had to be patient and I don’t want to come across as authoritarian, but he has also had to learn to listen and learn to learn.
“Players can choose to take guidance on board and apply themselves accordingly, or they don’t. The reality is, if you don’t listen, you won’t improve.
“We have been working with Ryan and speaking to him privately and all the credit has to go to him because he has listened and really applied himself.
“I thought he was first class against Crusaders last Tuesday night and against Glentoran, he was imperious. He produced two unbelievable performances.”
While Ballymena, who lie eighth in the table, have missed out on a top-six finish, they still have a lot to target in the remaining weeks of the season.
An Irish Cup semi-final looms large next weekend, while a seventh place finish would guarantee a spot in the European play-offs.
With six games left, the Sky Blues are just a point behind Gary Hamilton’s Glenavon, who travel to Coleraine on Saturday.
Ahead of Friday night’s trip to Larne, Jeffrey said: “In many previous campaigns, the season was maybe dead heading in April, but that’s not the case.
“Our upcoming games are massive and we still have a lot to play for.
“Larne are a quality team full of quality players, but I’m asking the players to respond again and give their best.”
- TONIGHT'S FIXTURE: Larne v Ballymena United (7.45pm)
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