OK unfazed by playing same opposition

COLERAINE boss Oran Kearney insists the Bannsiders will treat tonight’s game against Glentoran ‘no differently’ as they face the same opposition for a second time in succession (KO 7:30pm)…

Danske Bank Premiership

Overview:

Both teams will have to face each other again, just three days after the 2-2 draw at The Oval. That result leaves Coleraine in second place and nine points behind leaders Linfield. The Bannsiders were boosted by the return of Ben Doherty and Curtis Allen from injury on Tuesday night.

The Glens are in third spot in the table with a game in hand on Linfield, with the visitors playing Cliftonville and Larne before the league splits.

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 opening goal would arrive from the head of Stephen O’Donnell as he glanced home from Ben Doherty’s free-kick. Just when it looked like Coleraine would only have one goal to show for their efforts, they added a second before the interval as Doherty slotted past Dayle Coleing after being found by Stephen Lowry. The Glens were improved after the break and set-up a grandstand finish when Caolan Marron’s cross was headed home by Jay Donnelly but Coleraine held firm for all three points.

The latest meeting was just last Tuesday night at The Ocal and Glentoran made a quickfire start as Robbie McDaid and Jay Donnelly combined to give the hosts the lead. However, after weathering an early storm, the Bannsiders grew into the contest and equalised when Matthew Shevlin headed home from Jamie Glackin’s free-kick. On 70 minutes, Coleraine would take the lead as a great ball over the top by Josh Carson found Shevlin and he expertly found the bottom corner. That lead would only last six minutes as Glentoran equalised in fortuitous circumstances as Carson scored a rather unbelievable own goal.

Manager’s Thoughts:

“Playing the same team twice in a row happens from time to time,” Kearney said.

“We will just approach it as our next game and do nothing differently.

“We will prep, get ready and see where we are at body wise to get a team ready for another big game.”

Admission:

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

However, the match will be streamed live via the BBC Sport NI website and via the Red Button.

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