Match Preview

Bannsiders aiming for strong start to 2018

COLERAINE take on Linfield at The Showgrounds as the Stripes aim to welcome in the New Year with all three points…

The Bannsiders saw their lead at the top of the Danske Bank Premiership cut to two points as the 10-men earned a 0-0 draw against Cliftonville at Solitude. As for Linfield – they will be disappointed after losing their last two fixtures against Glentoran and Crusaders. The Blues remain the only team to have beaten the Stripes this season as both teams share a win apiece from the two meetings this season.

Coleraine manager Oran Kearney will be without the injured Lyndon Kane and James McLaughlin. Following his dismissal against Cliftonville, Aaron Traynor must sit out through suspension. However, Darren McCauley and Adam Mullan are expected to be fit after a virus. Furthermore, new signing Stephen Dooley will not be eligible as the winger requires international clearance. After losing their last two games, Kearney is expecting Linfield to ‘come out fighting’ on the Ballycastle Road.

“Linfield is a tough ask at any stage of the season, but even more so in their own predicament and we expect them to come out fighting,” Kearney said.

“Playing against teams who are on a bad run, or have lost a game or two are always the dangerous ones.

“I almost prefer playing against teams who have won their last game, or have finally managed to win a game when on a barren run.

“The Linfield game is the ones you to be involved in if you’re an Irish League footballer and we are expecting a great game and a good crowd.”

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

Supporters are reminded to read the following matchday car parking arrangements HERE. There will also be a Fun Day prior to kick-off with prizes worth up to £1,000.