Consistency will be key to a successful season, according to Ballinamallard United captain Aaron Arkinson.

The Mallards finished a lowly ninth in the NIFL Championship last season, but they demonstrated that they were a match for the top teams when they were at the top of their game, and Arkinson believes if they can fulfil their potential this season then they could have a campaign to remember.

“On our day we know we can beat anyone, but last year it just wasn’t there at times,” he conceded.

“We beat the likes of Portadown and Dundela but we let ourselves down in a few games, especially away to Knockbreda and Dergview. This season we have to try to get that consistency, and get as high as possible in the league.”

Arkinson reckons their performances in the pre-season games have been positive, and they have demonstrated some of that consistency by putting in a string of solid displays, even though that may not have been reflected in the results against top flight opposition.

“Pre-season has been good,” he said.

“The new lads have made a good impression. We have a blend of youth and experience there and I think we are shaping up well and we look okay.

"We have had some tough games against Dungannon, Loughgall and Finn Harps, and although we never got the results in those games, the performances have been relatively good and hopefully we can take that into Saturday.

"The players have worked hard, and the last game of pre-season is now over us and we are ready for Ballyclare.”

Pre-season is the first time the players have had training sessions led by Stafford, and Arkinson feels that the new boss has had an impressive start to his managerial career.

“Staff doesn’t complicate things too much,” he revealed.

“He just wants the boys to work hard and give everything - the basis is work hard. He has got us playing good football at the same time. We are all looking forward to the season.”

This will be Arkinson’s seventh season at Ferney Park since joining from Dergview.

The 33 year old took on the captain’s armband when previous captain Stafford stepped into the assistant manager position midway through last season. Arkinson was elected after a player vote, and the veteran defender feels in good shape on the eve of the season.

“The older you get, you get a few more niggles here and there, more than you want, but you have to try to look after yourself as best as a you can and try to get through it. If you need to miss the odd night at training or whatever just to make sure the body is right for the weekend then that is what you have to do, but I am feeling good.”

Although the full back is hopeful of a good season, he is staying away from predictions ahead of the season opener at Ferney Park.

“I don’t like setting too many targets,” he said.

“For me it is just about taking one game at a time. We can’t look too far ahead of Ballyclare, and it is very important to get that first win on the board, especially at home in front of our own crowd.

"Our full focus is on that, and then we will see where the season takes us after that."