Down to Business

Pre-Season Friendly

Overview:

In the penultimate weekend before the Danske Bank Premiership kicks off on August 10, Coleraine will hope to get some more valuable preparation this afternoon against Portadown. After winning all of their pre-season fixtures so far, the Bannsiders were beaten 2-1 by Portstewart last night in the annual Wes Gregg Memorial match. The Ports have been involved in an action packed pre-schedule after wins against Laurelvale, Hanover, Killyleagh YC, Dungannon Swifts, Belper Town and Comber Rec, with a draw versus Crumlin United and a defeat to Ballynahinch United.

Recent meetings:

The two sides clashed three times in league duty during the 2016/17 season with the Bannsiders awarded three points in August 2016 after Portadown were suspended from all football activity for the non-payment of a £5,000 fine. In October 2016, a solitary goal from Brad Lyons earned Coleraine a win at Shamrock Park, before the Stripes sealed a 4-2 win against the Ports in January 2017 via goals from Lyons (2), Neil McCafferty and Darren McCauley. There was also a pre-season fixture in June 2017 which went in the way of Coleraine as they won 3-2 at Shamrock Park through goals from James McLaughlin and a brace from Jamie McGonigle.

Team News:

Bannsiders boss Oran Kearney will shuffle his pack following last night’s defeat to Portstewart. It is expected that those who participated in the Wes Gregg Memorial match will not feature this afternoon. However, the Stripes received a boost last night as Lyndon Kane, Stephen Lowry and Alexander Gawne all made a return from injury.

Admission:

Adults £5, Concessions £3, Kids £1

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