Kearney expecting tough Glenavon test

COLERAINE welcome Glenavon to The Showgrounds with the aim of making it five straight victories in the Danske Bank Premiership (KO 3pm)…

The Stripes reached the third round of the BetMcLean.com League Cup following a 4-1 win over Larne on Tuesday, with Glenavon also prevailing against Donegal Celtic.

Coleraine maintained their winning start to the league season last Friday evening as Darren McCauley’s late strike earned the Stripes all three points against Warrenpoint Town. Meanwhile, Glenavon scored a late equaliser via Josh Daniels to have a share of the spoils against Glentoran at Mourneview Park.

The two sides met each other on five occasions last season – with one victory for Glenavon, two draws and two wins for the Bannsiders – which included the Irish Cup semi-final victory.

Bannsiders boss Oran Kearney will be without the services of Lyndon Kane, Gareth McConaghie, David Kee and James McLaughlin through injury, as well as Jamie McGonigle who is on international duty. However, Ciaron Harkin and Scot Whiteside are expected to return to the matchday panel.

“Glenavon have made a great start to the season,” Kearney said.

“I think going by Gary’s comments they were unlucky not to beat Glentoran last Friday, so they could be sitting on the same points as us.

“They have strengthened well in the summer and are a difficult side to play against, so we are expecting a tough match.”

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