Showgrounds Showdown

COLERAINE’S stay at the top of the Danske Bank Premiership will be put to the test as Glenavon are the visitors to The Showgrounds tomorrow afternoon (KO 3pm)…

Danske Bank Premiership

Overview:

Oran Kearney’s men extended their stay at the summit of the Premiership last weekend as a brace from Stephen Lowry helped seal a 2-0 success against Dungannon Swifts at Stangmore Park. As for the Lurgan Blues, they have won three out of their 12 league games, drawn two and lost seven, including last weekend’s defeat to Cliftonville at Mourneview Park and currently sit in 10th spot in the table.

Recent meetings:

Coleraine and Glenavon met each other back in August and it would be the Bannsiders who would leave Mid-Ulster with all three points. After a cagey opening 45 minutes, the visitors would hit the front with the last action of the first-half as Stephen Lowry was on hand to find the back of the net from James McLaughlin’s lay off. Then, a minute into the second-half, the same combination would work wonders again as Lowry powered home his second of the evening. The win was secured with further strikes from Ben Doherty and a debut goal from Nedas Maciulaitis.

Manager’s Thoughts:

“Every game in this league is difficult,” Kearney said.

“Dungannon was difficult and now the plan is to rest up after a tough week and get ready for Glenavon.

“I looked at their squad during the week and it looked strong – they seem to be over whatever injuries they have had.

“They’ll be difficult opponents for sure.

“You can’t under-estimate how big vocal backing is for the players.

“It’s the final thing we’re lacking, probably, and it’s more at home than away.

“At home it is something we’ve got to work on, to bring that noise to the occasion and make it as hostile as possible.”

Admission:

Supporters are reminded that entry is via valid matchday cards/season tickets only.

Admission for using a matchday card is £12 adults, £8 concessions.

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