Back at it

COLERAINE will hope to keep the pressure on the teams above them in the Danske Bank Premiership as they make the trip to Newry City this evening (KO 7:45pm)…

The Bannsiders suffered a 4-0 defeat last time out against rivals Ballymena United, meaning they remain in 6th spot in the Danske Bank Premiership – three points behind Cliftonville. As for Newry, they are now rooted to the bottom of the table after Ards’ draw against Glentoran coupled with their last gasp defeat to Dungannon Swifts.

Bannsiders boss Rodney McAree has suffered a fresh blow with the loss of Aaron Burns to injury and the suspension of Gareth McConaghie. The pair join Lyndon Kane, Alexander Gawne, Aaron Canning and Aaron Traynor on the sidelines. However, there is a boost as defender Mark Edgar is available for selection after coming off injured against Larne.

Darren Mullen’s side have proven to be a tough nut to crack for the Stripes as they have failed to beat tonight’s hosts this season. The first meeting was a 1-1 draw at the Newry Showgrounds back in September as Aaron Burns salvaged a point for the visitors. The last clash was in front of the BBC cameras and Mark McCabe’s first-half strike separated the sides on the Ballycastle Road.

After last weekend’s disappointing result against the Sky Blues, McAree wants a better performance from his troops.

“I can’t wait – after such a defeat you just want to get back and look forward to your next game,” said McAree.

“Newry beat us here and we have to go and turn the tables.”

As ever, those unable to attend can follow the latest developments via the club’s official Twitter account (@ColeraineFC).