Scene set

THE countdown is now over for the Boxing Day cracker…

By: Michael Anderson

Coleraine host Ballymena United in what is shaping up to be a full house.

It’s the one fixture in the season rival fans love their team to win.

Coleraine go into today’s tussle in fine form prior to their last game at Newry City being postponed (rearranged for January 10).

And they will be hoping that continues as they bid to take the derby day bragging rights that has eluded them in recent times.

The last three league meetings between the teams have ended in two wins for Ballymena and a draw.

And if previous encounters are anything to go by, expect a feisty confrontation in front of two sets of passionate supporters.

In the last 15 league encounters between the teams, a total of 10 players have been red-carded!

Seven of those have been Coleraine players which certainly hasn’t helped their cause.

And if history is anything to go by, fans can expect to see plenty of goals.

It’s been almost 25 years since the last scoreless draw between the sides!

That was in the league at Coleraine Showgrounds way back on March 7 1998.

So the scene is set for another Boxing Day clash.

Can Coleraine deliver a knockout blow to the Sky Blues?