Familiar Foe

Pre-Season Friendly

Overview:

The Bannsiders made it three wins from their first three pre-season fixtures in what would prove to be a busy week for Oran Kearney’s men. After defeating Moyola Park last Thursday evening, Coleraine were back in action last Saturday and goals from James McLaughlin and Eoin Bradley earned a comfortable 2-0 success at the Limavady Showgrounds. This will be Institute’s fourth pre-season fixture after wins against Newbuildings United, Finn Harps and Ballinamallard United. ‘Stute have been busy in the transfer window adding the likes of addition of Niall Grace, Aidy McCauley and Brendan McLaughlin to their ranks.

Recent meetings:

The two sides faced each other three times last season and there very little to choose between them. The first fixture was in August 2018 and the visitors had a half-time lead through Dean Curry but the game turned on its head when Jamie McGonigle and Brad Lyons put Coleraine ahead. There would be one final twist as Michael McCrudden kept his cool from the spot to register a 2-2 draw. The second clash was at the Brandywell and Coleraine registered all three points as a deadly brace from Darren McCauley in the first-half was enough to secure a success, despite Joe McCready pulling a goal back for the hosts. They also locked horns in March in a low key affair but Aaron Jarvis’ 90th minute winner separated them as Institute retained their Danske Bank Premiership status.

Team News:

Bannsiders boss Oran Kearney confirmed last week that Lyndon Kane is in contention to return after being out with a metatarsal injury since December, as well as Dean Shiels who has recovered from an ankle complaint. There is a further boost as Josh Carson will be in the squad after returning from holiday. However, it is expected that Stephen Lowry, Aaron Traynor, and Alexander Gawne won’t feature as the trio continue to return to full fitness.

Admission:

Adults £5, Concessions £3

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