COLERAINE know a positive result can confirm their top-six status as they welcome Portadown to The Showgrounds this afternoon (KO 3pm)…

SPORTS DIRECT PREMIERSHIP

Overview:

Coleraine moved up to sixth in the Sports Direct Premiership on Tuesday night after playing out a 2-2 draw against Cliftonville at The Showgrounds. A brace from Matthew Shevlin put the Bannsiders 2-1 ahead – but the Reds left with a share of the spoils as Ryan Curran netted a late equaliser from the spot. It means Dean Shiels men know avoiding defeat this afternoon will secure their top-six status for their post-split schedule.

Portadown were not in midweek action but played out a 1-1 draw at home to Dungannon Swifts last Saturday. Niall Currie’s men found themselves a man and a goal down to the in-form Swifts but earned a share of the spoils when Steven McCullough netted with less than ten minutes remaining. Results meant Portadown dropped down to 7th spot in standings ahead of this weekend’s fixtures.

Previous Meetings:

In September, Coleraine would leave Shamrock Park with a share of the spoils after the hosts came from two goals down to salvage a 2-2 draw. The Stripes made the breakthrough with less than 10 minutes on the clock as Rhyss Campbell showed perseverance to slam the ball into the back of the net from close range. Before the break, Rory Brown made a stunning save to deny Baris Alintop who looked like netting from a header. On 70 minutes, Coleraine went 2-0 ahead as Matthew Shevlin converted from the spot after Cameron Stewart was fouled inside the box. However, Portadown mounted a spirited comeback as Mayse scored from close range, before Dougie Wilson fired in a stoppage time equaliser.

Earlier this month, Coleraine recorded back-to-back victories in the Sports Direct Premiership as a goal in each half saw off Niall Currie’s side on the Ballycastle Road. The Bannsiders hit the front with 11 minutes on the clock when Ronan Doherty curled in his first goal in Coleraine colours. After Connor Murray and Matthew Shevlin had shots saved in the first-half, Coleraine doubled their advantage on 58 minutes as Jamie Glackin was played through on goal and he gleefully lobbed the ball over an advancing Aaron McCarey. Coleraine were rarely troubled throughout the 90 minutes as they preserved a clean sheet.

Head Coach’s Thoughts:

“I think it’s only one defeat in nine league games, which is really tough in this league, especially with the challenge each team possesses,” Shiels said.

“Portadown will be another difficult challenge at the weekend with the threats that they have.

“They are having a really good season…but it’s probably just the last hurdle for us in regards to putting ourselves in a really good position over the last few weeks.

“We have worked ever so hard, played really well to get us into this position and now it’s just about finishing the job.

Officials:

The match referee will be Declan Hassan.

The assistant referees are Adam Jeffrey and Niall McGuinness.

Tim Marshall has been selected as the fourth official.

Sponsors:

The match sponsor is the Railway Arms, Coleraine.

The Pals Club and Michelle Daly Personal Trainer & Fitness Instructor have kindly agreed to sponsor the match ball.

The mascot this afternoon is Alex.

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 HERE.

Portadown 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).