COLERAINE are on their way to Windsor Park to take on Dungannon Swifts in the final of the Irish Cup this afternoon (KO 2.30pm)…

CLEARER WATER IRISH CUP FINAL

Overview:

Coleraine finished their Premiership campaign on a winning note after a 6-2 success against Glentoran  at The Showgrounds. The result meant Ruaidhri Higgins’ men finished second in the table and earned automatic European football in the process. The Bannsiders have beaten Crusaders, Carrick Rangers, Limavady United and Larne en-route to the final.

Dungannon Swifts were beaten 8-0 by Larne last time out as they finished the campaign in sixth spot in the table. Rodney McAree’s side are the current Irish Cup holders after beating Cliftonville on penalties in last year’s final. The men from County Tyrone have continued their defence of the trophy after earning wins against Ards, Portadown, H&W Welders and Cliftonville.

Previous Meetings:

Coleraine and Dungannon Swifts have met on four occasions in the Sports Direct Premiership this term.

  • August 19, 2025 (SDP) – Coleraine 2 (McManus ’26 mins & Glackin ’35 mins) Dungannon Swifts 0
  • October 18, 2025 (SDP) – Coleraine 4 (Okoro ’13 mins, Marron own goal ’21 mins, Cooper ’55 mins & Patching ’61 mins) Dungannon Swifts 0
  • February 28, 2026 (SDP) – Dungannon Swifts 3 (McAllister ’11 mins, Alves ’20 mins & Wallace ’36 mins); Coleraine 1 (Akintunde ’50 mins)
  • April 28, 2026 (SDP) – Dungannon Swifts 1 (Moore ‘3 mins); Coleraine 2 (Cooper ’28 mins & Coyle ’50 mins)

Manager’s Thoughts:

“We will be going into the final full of confidence but also understanding we are coming up against a really good side,” Higgins said.

“I’ve said it previously but as the season has gone on, I felt the connection really grow between the players and fans.

“As the months have gone by, I’ve felt a strong connection between myself, the staff, the players and supporters and it’s really healthy.

“It’s a good recipe for success whenever everyone is pulling in the one direction.”

Officials:

The match referee will be Steven Gregg.

The assistant referees are Rachel Greer and Brian Wilson.

Shane Andrews has been selected as the fourth official.

Admission:

Coleraine supporters require tickets for the fixture which can be purchased HERE.

The game will be shown live on BBC Two NI.

Please be advised of the following supporter information for before, during and after the game HERE.

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