Match Preview

McAree: ‘It is a dangerous match for us’

COLERAINE are on the search for another three points as Dungannon Swifts are the visitors to The Showgrounds tomorrow afternoon (KO 3pm)…

The Bannsiders closed the gap on fourth-placed Glenavon to a single point last weekend as Josh Carson’s late winner earned Coleraine a victory at Ards. The Stripes looked like they would have to settle for a point, but claimed all three as Carson slipped the ball underneath the body of Sam Johnston in the 93rd minute. As for Dungannon, they continued their good run of form last time out as Daniel Hughes’ hat-trick helped Kris Lindsay’s men defeat Cliftonville at Stangmore Park. The Swifts remain in 10th position in the Danske Bank Premiership, but only trail seventh-placed Institute by five points.

The Irish Cup holders and BetMcLean League Cup holders will be familiar opposition to one another as they clash on league duty once again on Tuesday, February 5 at Stangmore Park. The first meeting went in the way of the Stripes as goals from Darren McCauley and James McLaughlin edged out the Swifts who pulled a goal back through Daniel Hughes.

Coleraine duo Dylan Davidson and Cormac Burke will be in line to make their debuts after signing from Glentoran and Dungannon Swifts respectively. However, there is no such joy for Lyndon Kane, Aaron Traynor, Aaron Burns and Alexander Gawne who all miss out through injury. A late fitness test will be given to defender Aaron Canning who was absent from the matchday panel against Ards with a knock, with Steven Douglas also doubtful with a chest infection.

Boss Rodney McAree knows his side will have to be at their best if they are to claim all three points against his former employers.

“They’re a well organised team whose players all understand their roles and I have no doubt it’ll be a tough game for us at the weekend,” he said.

“There’s a lot of quality in the Dungannon squad, there’s a great togetherness among the players and it’s a dangerous match for us.

“It’s important that our players don’t take their eye off the ball and we have to make sure that we’re at our very best.”

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

Supporters are reminded that entry is via matchday cards/season tickets only.