Cup Fever at The Showgrounds

COLERAINE will hope to reach the sixth round of the Tennent’s Irish Cup as they welcome Lisburn Distillery to The Showgrounds (KO 3pm)…

The Bannsiders had to kick their heels in frustration as the New Year’s Day clash against Linfield fell foul to the weather. As a result, the Stripes were knocked off the top of the table by Crusaders who recorded a comfortable victory against Ballinamallard United. As for the visitors, they have suffered back-to-back defeats in the Premier Intermediate League but currently occupy a healthy 3rd position in the table.

Coleraine will be hoping to go one better in the Irish Cup this year as they were beaten in the final last May to Linfield. The Bannsiders defeated Carrick Rangers, Tobermore United, Ballymena United and Glenavon en route to Windsor Park. The last time the two sides met was in league action in 2013 as goals from Stephen Lowry, Ruairi Harkin and Kyle McVey secured a 3-1 success on the Ballycastle Road.

Coleraine manager Oran Kearney will be without the services of Lyndon Kane and James McLaughlin through injury. It is hoped that Adam Mullan and Darren McCauley will be able to be fully fit, but defender Aaron Traynor misses out through suspension. The fixture could provide a debut for Stephen Dooley after the winger secured international clearance. Despite being favourites to go through, Kearney is taking nothing for granted.

“We had an enforced break against Linfield, so the players will be raring to go,” Kearney said.

“Lisburn Distillery have had a good season to date and will come here wanting a shock.

“Therefore, we know we will have to be at our best as anything can happen in cup football.”

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

Supporters are reminded that matchday cards/season tickets are NOT valid for this fixture and cash turnstiles will be in operation.