Dean Shiels says the financial investment in the Irish League means it is "getting harder" to keep clubs like Dungannon Swifts in the top-flight.
The Swifts edged out Annagh United over two legs to maintain their Premiership status but Shiels knows it is going to be a challenge to avoid being in a similar predicament next season.
He may only be in the job two years but the former Northern Ireland international says things have "changed dramatically" in terms of finances during that time.
Read next: Former Real Madrid and Liverpool man answers the call to aid Dungannon Swifts' survival bid
But rather than be downbeat Shiels is adamant both he and the Swifts will continue to do things their way as they bid to compete with the big guns.
"I’ve a contract here and I’m committed to improving this club and trying to push it forward," he said.
"It’s getting harder realistically to keep this club in the league, finances and all that comes along with that.
"Since I came it seems to have changed dramatically regarding finances and trying to compete.
"Recruitment is massive...we rely on youth and you could see that tonight with probably six or seven teenagers on the pitch.
"There’s no other club in the league doing it like us in the way that we are, playing young players, playing in the style of play which we are trying to play and trying to survive. So it’s getting all those elements together.
"I think we've played 14 different teenagers throughout the season.
"That was in important league games, we weren't just firing them in at the end of the season.
"We're hoping those players improve and stay with the club as long as possible.
"It's part and parcel of where we are at that clubs will be looking at our players.
"There's always going to be interest in young exciting players.
"All the elements are there for the young lads to go on and have a good career and that's what we're doing.
"We're providing a platform, but you have to survive too and people want results. Overall, any time this club can survive, it’s success."
READ NEXT:
- Scottish Cup final: Inverness defender Danny Devine speaks of St James' pride ahead of Celtic showdown
Glenavon boss Gary Hamilton admits to full-time dilemma after losing star striker
- Rory Gallagher absence 'a bit of a weakness' for Derry ahead of Donegal clash says Paddy Bradley
Sign up to our f ree sports newsletter to get the latest headlines to your inbox
