Killie keeper Harpur delighted with new contract

Jul 25 2008 by Clair Fullarton, Kilmarnock Standard

KILLIE keeper Chad Harpur is delighted to still be on the books at Rugby Park after signing a new one-year deal.

And his plea to the management for the season ahead is: “Give me a chance, I won’t let you down.”

The 25-year-old South African is in the unlucky position of being understudy to Alan Combe, who is one of the side’s most consistent performers.

Chad said: “Last season, Alan was probably our best player, which is great for the team, but makes things difficult for me.

“I just hope to get a chance and do well when I do get it.”

The cheery keeper has settled well into Scottish life after three seasons with Killie, setting up home in the town, and admits he enjoys the camaraderie at Rugby Park.

“I love it here in Scotland,” he said.

“Killie are my first club since leaving South Africa and it is a great place to be.

“I certainly didn’t want to leave.

“I do miss home though, but this is my job and I knew I had to travel to succeed.”

Chad, who started his career with Durban club Manning Rangers, is just back from a holiday in Cape Town, which he described as ‘beautiful’.

“The weather was fantastic, and it was great seeing my family and friends, but I’m happy here in Scotland now.

“Mind you, the weather is awful for the middle of summer! But the people here more than make up for that. Everyone has been so friendly and welcoming.”

Chad is a familiar face in the town as one of the parts of the job he relishes is getting out there to meet the fans.

He said: “Every time I’m asked to do a job in the community I jump at the chance.

“The club and the people here have given so much to me, so I’m only too happy to give back.”

Now all the enthusiastic keeper needs is his chance to shine on the pitch.

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