Bannsider Brown

COLERAINE is pleased to announce the signing of goalkeeper Rory Brown on a two-and-a-half year deal…

The shot stopper joins from Glenavon as part of a deal that sees Gareth Deane move to Mourneview Park in the opposite direction.

Brown started his career at Wolverhampton Wanderers and would sign for Institute following his release at Molineux.

A fine run of displays for ‘Stute would alert the attention of Glentoran in 2020, with Brown then spending a year on loan at Ballinamallard United in the 2021/22 campaign.

The 23-year-old would then join Gary Hamilton at Glenavon and he has been considered as one of the best custodians in the Premiership since moving to Mourneview Park.

Speaking to colerainefc.com, boss Oran Kearney admits he has been impressed by Brown’s progress since entering the top flight.

“We are delighted to get Rory on board,” he said.

“Rory has been up there as one of the best ‘keepers in the league in recent years and we are looking forward to working with him.

“I’ve tracked his progress since his move to Glenavon and we are pleased to get everything over the line.”

The Club can confirm that Brown will wear the number 13 shirt for the rest of the campaign.

As one goalkeeper enters the fray, another one departs with Deane making 126 appearances since arriving at the club from Linfield.

Deane’s start to life at Coleraine will always be remembered as he kept a clean sheet in the Europa League qualifying win against La Fiorita, before producing a series of stunning saves in the penalty shoot-out success away at Maribor.

“Gareth has been an ever-present since signing for us back in 2020 and was a popular member of the changing room,” Kearney said.

“I remember pushing hard to get him to come to Coleraine and I’m glad I did.

“Gareth can leave with some fond memories and I wish him well for the rest of his career.”