Match Preview

OK hoping for a collective effort

COLERAINE boss Oran Kearney knows his players will have to be at their best as they visit in-form Glentoran this evening (KO 7:45pm)…

Danske Bank Premiership

Overview:

The Bannsiders remained in second spot in the Danske Bank Premiership last weekend as they came from behind to beat Warrenpoint Town at Milltown. Oran Kearney’s men trailed via a tremendous strike from Kealan Dillon but turned the game on its head to take all three points as Stephen O’Donnell netted a brace.

Glentoran are unbeaten in their last six Premiership matches and will come into the contest full of confidence after beating Dungannon Swifts on Saturday afternoon. A first-half brace from Ruaidhri Donnelly done the damage as Mick McDermott’s troops tightened their grips on third spot in the table.

Previous meetings:

The two sides met at the end of October at The Showgrounds as two first-half goals sealed victory for Oran Kearney’s men, despite a late strike from Jay Donnelly for the visitors.

The hosts would break the deadlock on five minutes as Doherty’s free-kick from the left-hand side was headed in by skipper O’Donnell for his first goal of the season.

Mick McDermott’s side should have equalised on 28 minutes as Robbie McDaid could only head into the arms of Gareth Deane from close range, with Stephen Lowry and Gareth McConaghie going close at the other end.

Coleraine would grab a deserved second in first-half stoppage time as Lowry had the vision to pick out the run of Doherty and he coolly dispatched his effort past Dayle Coleing.

The Stripes would be reduced to 10 men just after the hour mark as James McLaughlin received a straight red card for a tackle on Bobby Burns, but they should have strengthened their grip on the game as Stewart Nixon and Doherty both had chances.

Glentoran would ensure there would be a grandstand finish as Caolan Marron’s cross picked out Jay Donnelly who headed into the bottom corner.

Manager’s Thoughts:

“It’s simply a case of going again,” Kearney said.

“It’s all about getting the food in, a bit of a recovery and recharging batteries for another big game.

“Glentoran, like ourselves, had a slow start to the season but they are now flying and in-form.

“It’s always a tough game at The Oval, especially with the high standard of players that they have brought in.

“With the quality of players they have we know we need to be at our best.

“However, when you have that collective of people wanting to do their jobs, then we function.”

Admission:

Supporters are not permitted inside the stadium due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.

However, the fixture will be shown live and can be purchased HERE.

A full instruction list for the stream can be read HERE

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