Match Preview

Back to Bread and Butter

COLERAINE welcome in-form Glentoran to The Showgrounds as the Stripes aim to keep up the pressure at the top of the table…

Danske Bank Premiership

Overview:

The Bannsiders were knocked off the top of the Danske Bank Premiership last Saturday after a 2-0 defeat away to Institute. However, 72 hours later, they would respond in fine style as second-half goals from Aaron Canning, Ben Doherty and Aaron Jarvis sealed a 3-0 win against Linfield to book the Bannsiders’ into the League Cup final. Glentoran come to The Showgrounds in fine form after winning six of their last seven games. Mick McDermott’s side moved to within five points of the top – with a game in hand – courtesy of last weekend’s victory against Cliftonville at Solitude.

Recent meetings:

Saturday’s meeting will be the third time the two teams have clashed this season already. The first fixture ended in a 2-2 draw back in August. The Bannsiders had a 2-0 lead courtesy of Eoin Bradley and Aaron Canning, but James McLaughlin’s dismissal turned the game on its head as Hrvoje Plum and Paul O’Neill found the back of the net to earn the Glens a share of the spoils. In October, Coleraine welcomed Glentoran to The Showgrounds in the League Cup and the visitors were reduced to 10 men in the first-half after James McCarthy was given a second yellow card. Oran Kearney’s side booked their spot in the next round through goals from Jamie Glackin and Ben Doherty, despite Navid Nasseri’s late strike.

Manager’s Thoughts:

“Football never shocks you, the last few weeks are what they are,” Oran said.

“For me, to have gone through the excitement of the Irish Cup final a few years ago and the excitement around the place and what it did for the borough and the north west.

“A cup final is a cup final but it will be a great buzz around the place for the next couple of months for everybody – fans, board, players – and it gives everyone something to look forward to.

“The results Glentoran are putting together are impressive and to go to Cliftonville and win is impressive.

“They’re building momentum the way anyone would want to and the expectation is there.

“They are definitely title contenders.”

Admission:

Supporters are reminded that entry is via valid matchday cards/season tickets only.

Admission for using a matchday card is £12 adults, £8 concessions.

The Wes Gregg Coleraine Supporters’ Club are hosting their annual ‘Flag Day’ with a cash prize for the winner HERE.

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