Seaview Bound

COLERAINE will be looking for a valuable three points as they take on Crusaders this evening at Seaview (KO 7:45pm)…

The Bannsiders come into the fixture after back-to-back draws against Glentoran and Institute but know a win tonight will help them move joint top of the Danske Bank Premiership. The Stripes were in League Cup action against Ballyclare Comrades in midweek and edged through to the third round via a last gasp strike from Ian Parkhill. As for the Crues, they returned to winning ways in the league as a late goal from Philip Lowry helped them overcome Warrenpoint Town, before overpowering PSNI on Tuesday evening in the Cup.

The two sides met each other on four occasions last season, with the Bannsiders winning the first at Seaview in August via goals from Eoin Bradley and Stephen O’Donnell. The next two games were draws at The Showgrounds (1-1 and 3-3), before the Irish Cup holders were denied an important win in North Belfast last April as David Cushley rifled home a late equaliser as the two sides locked horns for the Gibson Cup.

Coleraine manager Oran Kearney will be without the services of Lyndon Kane and James McLaughlin for the fixture – which is live on Sky Sports. The visitors will also be sweating on the fitness of striker Aaron Burns who has a groin complaint. It marks a busy schedule of fixtures for Coleraine as they are in Scottish Challenge Cup action this weekend.

“The players are very tuned into what they’re doing nowadays – you have to ask them to go that extra mile all the time with the games coming thick and fast,” said Kearney.

“It will be a tough game, particularly at Seaview, where we had a cracking 1-1 draw at the end of last season,

“They’re the reigning champions so we know how difficult it’s going to be but it’s important we kick on a couple of gears and be ready for them.”

Supporters are reminded that entry into the ground is via ticket only.

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