COLERAINE Women faced a formidable test last night as they welcomed Championship side Mid Ulster Ladies…

Aware of the challenge ahead, Coleraine approached the game with grit and a clear intent to make life difficult for their visitors.

Mid Ulster wasted no time showcasing their quality, opening the scoring just 15 minutes into the match with a well-executed move that demonstrated their speed and fluidity in possession. Despite the early setback, Coleraine remained composed and disciplined, keeping their heads up and sticking to their game plan.

The home side’s impressive work rate paid off as they managed to contain Mid Ulster’s advances for the remainder of the first half, going into the break just 1-0 down. The defensive line stood tall, and the team’s resilience shone through during a tough opening 45 minutes.

Unfortunately, just before the half-time whistle, Coleraine suffered a blow as striker Shannon Friel took a painful knock to the knee and was forced to come off, dealing a tough hand to the team’s attacking options.

The second-half began with Mid Ulster pressing hard, and their efforts were rewarded with two quick goals from set pieces. Despite the growing scoreline, Coleraine’s midfield and defence stood as a cohesive and determined unit, making it increasingly difficult for the visitors to find clear chances in open play.

Midfielders Sam Miskimmon, Alex Bachman-Williams and Chelsea Moore began to find more rhythm in possession late in the game, linking up well and creating opportunities that hinted at a deserved goal. But as the final minutes ticked away, Mid Ulster capitalised on another corner, sealing their fourth goal and putting the result beyond doubt.

While the scoreline reads 4-0, it was far from a one-sided contest. Coleraine showed heart, fight, and flashes of quality throughout, making Mid Ulster work hard for every goal. Every player in black gave their all, and though it wasn’t to be on the night, the team can take plenty of positives into their next Division 2 league fixture.

The focus now shifts to Wednesday’s match away to Lisbellaw United Ladies, where Coleraine will regroup with the same determination and positive mindset that has defined their season so far.