Larne Looms

COLERAINE return to action following last weekend’s postponement as they host Larne at The Showgrounds (KO 3pm)…

Danske Bank Premiership

Overview:

The Bannsiders come into the fixture on the back of two successive defeats against Crusaders and Linfield, with last weekend’s clash against Carrick Rangers being postponed in line with NIFL’s COVID-19 policy. Oran Kearney’s men currently occupy 6th spot in the Danske Bank Premiership.

Larne have made a good start to the new campaign having amassed 17 points from their opening 7 games. Tiernan Lynch’s side haven’t been beaten at all this season and will be buoyed by a last gasp winner against Cliftonville last time out. The Inver Park side also have a County Antrim Shield final against Glentoran to look forward to next week.

Recent meetings:

Coleraine and Larne were no strangers to each other last season after meeting on three occasions in all competitions. The first was a goalless draw at The Showgrounds last September, with the points also shared at Inver Park in December as Mark Randall’s second-half strike earned the hosts a 2-2 draw.

The final contest would be a thriller as Coleraine and Larne squared off in the Irish Cup. In a cagey first-half, Larne would take the lead through a Lyndon Kane own goal, before James McLaughlin restored parity after the break. However, Larne would hit the front again via Jeff Hughes’ header but back came Coleraine as Stephen Lowry powered home from the spot. Just when it looked like extra-time was on the horizon, Coleraine would find a winner as Eoin Bradley slammed into the net from a tight angle.

Manager’s Thoughts:

“Ideally we would like a few of the walking wounded back,” Oran said.

“The likes of Aaron Traynor, Evan Tweed and Howard Beverland will give us a few more bodies back and strengthen numbers.

“Injuries and suspensions are part and parcel of football and I’ve had the opposite where all 20 or 21 players are fit and you have to upset three players by not naming them in the 18.

“We had for a large part of last season but it is what it is and some of the suspensions are self inflicted and didn’t need to happen, with the injuries all freakish one.

Admission:

Supporters are not permitted inside the stadium due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.

Coleraine TV will be streaming the match live with full instructions HERE

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