Gallagher hoping to seize opportunity

COLERAINE goalkeeper Martin Gallagher admits his opportunity between the sticks is a case of ‘unfortunate circumstances’ as a broken thumb rules out Gareth Deane for the foreseeable future…

The ex-Institute stopper has been drafted into the starting eleven as regular ‘keeper Gareth Deane got injured in the recent defeat to Linfield.

However, despite wishing Gareth a speedy recovery, the L/Derry man knows it is his time to shine as he gets ready to face in-form Glentoran tomorrow night.

“I’m excited to be playing but it’s unfortunate circumstances due to Gareth’s injury,” he said.

“The two of us get on well and we have a good working relationship.

“Unfortunately, he has broken his thumb but it is my time to step up and I’ll do my best for the team.

“It is another big game with the double header taking place on the Friday.

“Both teams are in-form heading into the game so we are looking forward to it.”

Gallagher joked that he made Kealan Dillon’s tremendous strike for Warrenpoint look good but was delighted to see Stephen O’Donnell step up at the other end with two goals as Coleraine pocketed all three points.

“It is never easy coming to Milltown as they put it up to you and we knew that it would be a physical game,” he continued.

“Thankfully big Stephen stepped up with the two goals and at this stage of the season, it’s all about putting points on the board.

“I was never getting that goal was I?

“I just made it look better!

“Stephen is immense, great in the air, aggressive and I was delighted for him.

“At this stage it doesn’t matter who scores – it’s all about getting the points on the board and moving on.”