Going to Warr for the ‘Points

COLERAINE kick-start their Danske Bank Premiership campaign tomorrow afternoon as Warrenpoint Town make the trip to the Ballycastle Road (KO 3pm)…

The Bannsiders come into the fixture in fine form after a comfortable 8-0 win against Dergview in pre-season action last weekend. Goals from Alexander Gawne (2), Josh Carson, Stephen Lowry, Eoin Bradley (pen), Ian Parkhill, Ciaron Harkin and an own goal saw the Stripes overcome their Championship opponents.

The Irish Cup holders had their upper-hand in the three meetings between the two sides last season. The first fixture was in August 2017 and the Bannsiders had Darren McCauley to thank as the midfielder stroked home a winner 10 minutes from time against the 10-men of Warrenpoint. Just before Christmas, goals from Ian Parkhill and McCauley earned a 2-0 success at Milltown, before Josh Carson’s goal directly from a corner was enough for a 1-0 victory in the final meeting of the 2017-18 campaign. Despite losing the services of Lorcan Forde to Linfield in the summer, ‘Point boss Stephen McDonnell has been quick to bring in Philip Donnelly, Gavin Brennan, Simon Kelly, Francis McCaffrey, Marc Griffin & Ciaran O’Connor.

Oran Kearney’s men were piped to the title by Crusaders on the final day of the season, but the boss insists their exploits from last season are now firmly in the ‘history books’.

“Last season is done and dusted and it’s very much in the back of my mind and in the history books,” the boss said.

“It’s about getting off to a great start next week and getting three points in the bag and moving on from there.

“It’s been a good pre-season, the European games have been brilliant as they’ve really upped the tempo and have left us in good shape.

“There are no easy games at this level and Warrenpoint will be out to impress and try to get off to a great start like every other team.

“It is important that we are at our best and firing on all cylinders.”

Supporters should be aware that entry to The Showgrounds will only be via matchday cards/season tickets only.

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