Match Action vs Crusaders

HIGHLIGHTS from the Bannsiders’ 2-1 win against Crusaders can now be viewed on the club’s official YouTube account…

The Bannsiders would seal League Cup glory for the first time since 1987 as goals from Stephen Lowry and James McLaughlin meant the trophy would return to The Showgrounds.

It would be Crusaders who would take the lead on 10 minutes as Declan Caddell headed the ball into the path of Jamie McGonigle who rifled past Chris Johns.

However, after steadying an early Crusaders storm, the Bannsiders would be awarded a penalty on 37 minutes as Jamie Glackin went to ground inside the box and Stephen Lowry comfortably dispatched from 12 yards.

After the break, Coleraine would edge in front on 52 minutes as Crusaders failed to clear their lines from a corner which allowed James McLaughlin to head home in front of a vocal East Stand.

Oran Kearney’s men nearly grabbed a third as Sean O’Neill was called into action to deny Ian Parkhill’s drive, with McGonigle missing a guilt-edged chance to send the game into extra-time at the death.