In the last in our series of Loan Watch, we take a look at the progress of young Australian defender Nick Aretzis, who spent the second half of the season at Bangor in the LOUGH 41 Premier Intermediate League.
Aretzis (above right), who joined the Inver Reds during our first intake of students as part of the club’s Scholarship Programme, made the temporary move to The Seasiders in January in order to gain vital first team experience in preparation for staking a claim for a spot in Tiernan Lynch’s squad for the 2022/23 season.
Comfortable both in the centre of defence and at full back, the Aussie defender made his senior debut for Larne in December’s East Antrim derby victory over Carrick Rangers at Taylor’s Avenue prior to heading out on loan. The performance on the day drew praise from both management and supporters alike, proved to be a catalyst for the temporary move in search of more senior game time.
NICK ARETZIS – Bangor
Following the confirmation of a loan move late in the January window, Aretzis made his debut for his new side in February, going straight into the starting team and playing 70 minutes in an enthralling 3-2 victory over Newington YC.
After a recurring injury, Aretzis’ next appearance for Bangor came towards the end of March, when he played the last 20 minutes in a 3-1 home win against Portstewart.
The defender returned to the starting line-up at the beginning of April, playing the full 90 minutes in six out of seven fixtures and bagging his first goal in senior football in a 2-2 draw away to Dollingstown.
As the race for promotion came to the home straight, Aretzis became a mainstay at the heart of Bangor’s defence. In a 2-0 victory over Banbridge Town on the first weekend of May, the Aussie made his final appearance for his temporary club, before travelling back to Australia to reunite with family during a well-deserved end of season break.
Having signed a professional contract at Inver Park prior to going on loan, Aretzis will return to training with the first team squad tomorrow for pre-season, and will hope to be a part of Tiernan Lynch’s European plans.
