Glory at Stake

COLERAINE’S quest for a first League Cup triumph in 33 years comes to a head tomorrow evening as the Bannsiders face Crusaders at Windsor Park (KO 7:30pm)…

BetMcLean League Cup Final

Overview:

The Bannsiders moved up to second spot in the Danske Bank Premiership table as Jamie Glackin’s goal – directly from a corner kick – was enough to overcome Glentoran at The Oval last weekend. Oran Kearney’s men have navigated ties against Annagh United, Glentoran, Dundela and Linfield to reach the decider. As for Crusaders, they will be looking for a quick response to their league defeat against Glenavon at Mourneview Park, with the North Belfast side defeating Limavady United, Ballymena United and Institute en route to the final.

Recent meetings:

Coleraine recorded maximum points from their first two fixtures against Crusaders this season, with the first ending up in a 4-2 win at The Showgrounds. After Jamie McGonigle gave Crusaders the lead, Coleraine would respond and go 2-1 ahead through Ben Doherty and an own goal from Jordan Owens. The Stripes would extend their advantage after the break through Jamie Glackin and Eoin Bradley as Christopher Hegarty netted a late consolation for the visitors.

In October, Coleraine would leave Seaview with a victory courtesy of two penalties from Ben Doherty.

The final clash went the way of Crusaders just last month as Jordan Owens’ first-half header earned Stephen Baxter’s side all three points on the Ballycastle Road.

Manager’s Thoughts:

“There will be a good spring in our step and it’s something to look forward to,” he said.

“I think we were rabbits in the headlights for the first final against Linfield and we weren’t used to the whole occasion.

“We got that right and won the cup against Cliftonville a year later.

“This one is not about the furore, or the build-up or anything like that, it’s about winning a game of football and trying to lift another trophy.”

Admission:

Admission is strictly ticket only and supporters can purchase them online HERE

Meanwhile, the Spirit of 74 Coleraine Supporters’ Club are organising pre-match events for fans of all ages tomorrow afternoon. HERE

Furthermore, supporters who are travelling by car and bus are urged to read the following traffic and travel information prior to departing for Windsor Park. HERE

The Club Shop will be open from 12 pm to 5pm for fans to purchase merchandise and other items, with some special offers available. HERE

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