Bannsiders set for derby showdown

COLERAINE are on their travels this Saturday as they prepare for the first derby of the season against Ballymena United (KO 3pm)…

By: Aaron O’Neill

The Bannsiders head into tomorrow’s Danske Bank Premiership fixture with their unbeaten run still intact after last week’s courageous 0-0 draw against Glentoran.

The result means that Coleraine have managed to pick up a total of twenty-two points from a possible twenty-four so far this season, a feat which means they sit top of the league heading into the derby clash at the Ballymena Showgrounds.

Coleraine manager Oran Kearney said, “Everybody looks forward to a derby and we’re no different. Ballymena have good players throughout their team and we’re expecting a tight game as always.

“As long as we hit the levels we have done in recent weeks then it gives us something to build on,” believes the Stripes boss.

The Bannsiders have enjoyed some success at the home of their rivals in recent seasons, the most notable victory coming in the form of a 4-0 Irish Cup win back in March.

Kearney said, “Our record there is pretty strong but I don’t think this will have a huge bearing on what happens on Saturday.”

The Braidmen have hit a patch of form ahead of the derby as they have enjoyed three wins in their last four league games, the most recent, a 3-1 away win against Ballinamallard. United boss David Jeffrey admits that Saturday’s game will present, ‘a big challenge,’ for his players as they look to halt the charge of the table-toppers.

Oran Kearney will be without the services of Josh Carson as the winger begins a three match suspension following his dismissal at The Oval last time out. Brad Lyons is expected to be fit to take his place in the starting line-up despite being forced off through injury against Glentoran.

David Kee and Gareth McConaghie may be included in the match day squad as they return to full fitness whilst Lyndon Kane and James McLaughlin remain long-term absentees.

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