KODI Lyons-Foster says he is looking forward to playing in his first derby as a Coleraine player as the Bannsiders face Ballymena United tomorrow afternoon…

Coleraine travel to Warden Street as the two teams square off for the first time this season (KO 3pm).

Lyons-Foster is no stranger to playing in big derbies after representing Glentoran in the ‘Big Two’ showpiece against Linfield – but how does he feel on the eve of locking horns against the Braidmen?

“We are expecting a tough game,” he said.

“Ballymena are a good side. They’ve had a decent start to the season but so have we.

“So we’ll go into it full of confidence. I think a derby is a derby. I think form goes out the window.

“‘I’ve played in the ‘Big Two’ derby and I expect this to be very similar.

“There will be a good atmosphere from both sets of fans…so we’re looking forward to it.”

Lyons-Foster was a used substitute in the BetMcLean Cup win against Dollingstown through the week and netted his second goal in Coleraine colours with a close-range header.

The London-born ace missed a couple of games last month due to a knock but feels he is back to full fitness.

He explained: “I don’t think we went there kind of thinking it’s got to be a stroll in the park.

“Obviously, being on the bench and watching it, I thought the boys started the game with a real intensity and obviously the boys who came on, even the young players, really applied themselves well.

“I feel a lot better now…the setback kind of messed up my rhythm.

“To have pre-season in the bank and then to get injured that early in the season is a bit frustrating.

“But now I’m feeling better game by game.”

Supporters can get tickets for tomorrow’s game HERE.