Meet the Supporter: Simon Magee

SIMON Magee talks all things Coleraine FC as our ‘Meet the Supporter’ series continues…

1. How long have you supported Coleraine?

For about 20 years (but don’t mention it to Greg Calvin).

2. What’s your first memory?

I think my first game was at home against Portadown & Vinny Arkins destroying us around 1997 – they still seem to be a bogey team for me now…thankfully we don’t have them to play in the league this season (although I do think they make for a better Premiership).

3. Any funny stories from your time as a supporter?

There have been some great adventures as a Coleraine fan, a group of 5/6 of us used to travel everywhere in my polo – Mark Lyons (Brad Lyons’ big brother) – got one of his many nicknames on these trips due to his inability to understand the concept of a Sat Nav.

But Dave Dunlop deserves a special mention, he loves a chant but rarely manages to pick up all the words…according to Dave if you come from Ballymena you must love LOL.

Dave also famously took a ball to the face from Sean O’Neill after a Coleraine injury time goal at Seaview, but fortunately it didn’t damage his beautiful face….

4. Your favourite current player/past player?

I’ll pick a past & current player, both quality for Coleraine but also good friends – Howard Beverland who remains a good friend & Brad Lyons, a family friend and old neighbour (that will keep both Mummy’s happy).

5. Your favourite away trip?

The recent Europe adventure is right up there with anything for me, but worthy of special mention was Bohemians in the Setanta Cup, the polo was on tour (& we even squeezed a wee overnighter out of it) – think for all concerned, I’ll stick to the agreement that what goes on tour…stays on tour!

6. Your favourite goal?

I’d say Johnny Black’s extra-time winner in the League Cup at Solitude is probably right up there for me.

7. Any favourite matches?

I think the 6 goals we scored at The Oval in 2009-10 season will always stand out but we could pick from about 15 games that season…it was pure theatre following our team!

8. If you could sign any player from another Irish League, who would it be?

Controversially, I’ll pick Tony Kane…his ability from set pieces and the penalty spot would be perfect for our reserves.