Festive Fixtures

DID you know that the Bannsiders used to play games on Christmas Day?

By: Michael Anderson

Coleraine played Crusaders last Saturday, Glentoran on Wednesday before looking ahead to facing Ballymena United on December 27.

It’s a busy time for players and supporters alike.

But spare a thought for the Coleraine players from yesteryear.

Because they used to have to play on Christmas Day!

From 1928/29 – a 3-1 home win over Portadown – up until 1976 – a 3-2 away win at Ballymena – the Irish League ran a full fixture programme on December 25.

There was a break during the Second World War, but this was a regular occurrence until the mid 70’s.

That last Christmas Day game was a 3-2 win at Ballymena United back in 1976 where Dessie Dickson scored a hat trick.

‘Dickie’ popped up with a late winner for ten man Coleraine.

Club statistician Hunter McClelland was in the stands that day in 1975 and recalls it well.

“It was a crazy game I remember,” said Hunter.

“We won the match despite having Frankie Moffatt sent off by referee Malcolm Moffatt.

“He was sent off for something he said after refusing to get up for treatment.

“And it turned out he had to be carried off and go to hospital because of the injury he sustained.

“On top of that Michael Guy got booked twice and wasn’t sent off!

“I remember there were suggestions that the referee was slightly inebriated!

“It was a bizarre match but a memorable result.”

So although it is a gruelling schedule, I’m quite sure fans and players alike will be only too happy to sit at home and relax this Christmas Day!