Coleraine expecting tough test against Glentoran

COLERAINE and Glentoran are set to lock horns at The Oval as the Bannsiders aim to make it eight wins in a row in the Danske Bank Premiership (KO 3pm)…

The Stripes remained three points clear at the top of the table after last weekend’s 3-0 victory against Carrick Rangers. After threatening the Carrick goalmouth in the early stages, the deadlock was broken on the half hour mark when David Ogilby fired in a half volley, before a second-half brace from the in-form Darren McCauley sealed all three points at The Showgrounds.

Glentoran have made a solid start to the season and currently occupy 5th position in the Danske Bank Premiership after suffering only one defeat so far. Gary Haveron’s side sealed a 3-1 win over Ballymena United last time out with Marcus Kane, Curtis Allen and John McGuigan getting on the scoresheet.

The Bannsiders secured maximum points from the three fixtures between the two sides last season. A brace from James McLaughlin helped Coleraine to a 4-1 win in August 2016, before a solitary strike from Jamie McGonigle earned all three points at The Oval in November 2016. In the final meeting, goals from Eoin Bradley (pen) and Jamie McGonigle eased Coleraine to a 2-0 win in March 2017.

Coleraine manager Oran Kearney will be without the services of Lyndon Kane and James McLaughlin through injury, meanwhile Gareth McConaghie and David Kee will feature for the Reserves as they return to full fitness.

Kearney believes his side will face a ‘difficult’ challenge this afternoon.

“We are on cloud nine because securing one win in this league is difficult, never mind seven,” said the Stripes boss.

“We have a strong starting eleven who are a match for anyone in the league.

“We will get the players in for training this week and look forward to a difficult match against Glentoran.”

Supporters are advised to read the following travel information HERE.

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