COLERAINE return to Premiership commitments this evening as Cliftonville visit the Ballycastle Road (KO 7:45pm)…
SPORTS DIRECT PREMIERSHIP
Overview:
Coleraine crashed out of the Irish Cup last weekend after a 2-1 extra-time defeat to Dungannon Swifts. After Declan McManus netted on his debut to cancel out Gael Bigirimana’s opener, the Swifts edged their way into the last eight as Tomas Galvin struck the killer blow. It now means Coleraine can solely focus on Premiership commitments, with new recruit Charles Dunne in line to make his debut.
Cliftonville emerged victorious from their Irish Cup contest against Glenavon as they ran out 3-2 victors after extra-time. The Reds – who won the competition last year – will face north Belfast rivals Crusaders in the quarter-final stage. Jim Magilton’s side added Jack Keaney (Drogheda United), Callum McCay (Derry City), Eric McWoods (Sandvikens IF), Alex Parsons (Brisbane Roar) and Harry Wilson (unattached) to their squad in the January transfer window.
Previous Meetings:
The two teams have only met once earlier this season with Cliftonville grabbing all three points courtesy of a 2-1 win at Solitude. The deadlock was broken on 18 minutes when Rory Hale was fouled by Graham Kelly inside the box, allowing Joe Gormley to convert from 12 yards. The Bannsiders grew into the contest and equalised in fine style on the half hour mark. Jamie Glackin robbed Shea Kearney in possession and slipped the ball into the path of Jamie McGonigle who expertly dispatched his shot into the far corner. Coleraine were guilty of wasting chances before and after Gormley added his second of the evening which was enough for Cliftonville to seal the victory.
Head Coach’s Thoughts:
“We all want instant success, we all want better. We now have to look at how we respond,” Shiels added.
“We’ve lots to play for in regards to can we get into European play-offs? Can we give the fans European football next year and that’s the target.
“We need some stability with the new signings bedding in…we will get there.
“This club will progress, we’ve massive ambitions.”
Officials:
The match referee will be Evan Boyce.
The assistant referees are Kristian Hanna and Octavian George Neacsu
Gareth Stewart has been selected as the fourth official.
Sponsors:
The match sponsor is Gleam Property Services.
Skyline Windows kindly agreed to sponsor the match ball.
The mascots this evening are Leo, Fionn and Ethan.
The Man of the Match award will be sponsored by Holley Optometrists.
Admission:
Season tickets are valid for the fixture, although, non-season ticket holders will require matchday tickets for the fixture.
Cliftonville fans will need tickets to enter the stadium which can be purchased HERE.
Due to a good expected at The Showgrounds, we encourage both sets of supporters to arrive at the ground in good time HERE.
As ever, those unable to watch the fixture can follow the latest developments via the club’s official Twitter account (@ColeraineFC).