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Stripes relishing Seaview battle

COLERAINE aim to secure a positive result as they take on early league leaders Crusaders at Seaview (KO 3pm)…

By: Aaron O’Neill

Both sides head into the game having enjoyed wins in their opening two games of the new Danske Bank Premiership season. The Bannsiders had a joyous 3-1 victory against Dungannon Swifts in their season opener last Saturday. The Bannsiders made it a double delight after an emphatic 2-0 win over Cliftonville at the Showgrounds on Tuesday night.

Crusaders find themselves top of the table on goal difference heading into Saturday’s third round of fixtures. The Hatchetmen have scored 9 goals in their opening fixtures, having enjoyed a 4-1 victory over Ballymena United and a 5-0 thumping of Warrenpoint Town in midweek.

Having only conceded 1 goal so far this season Oran Kearney’s side will be aiming to come away from Seaview with a positive result and try to put an end to the Crusaders’ goal spree so far this season.

Oran Kearney has called for calm ahead of Saturday’s game and admits his side can’t look ahead.

“Crusaders have started the season like a house on fire and we have a fair idea how tough it will be,” he said.

“It’s a good start to the season but it’s very simple, you take each game as it comes and I know everyone hates to hear it but I know there’s no point looking too far ahead.

“You notch each game off as it comes and all our attention will be on Crusaders on Saturday.”

Last season’s fixtures between both teams were closely fought affairs. Coleraine and Crusaders met on 5 occasions in all competitions last season and the results would suggest there is little to separate both sides. The two teams enjoyed 2 wins apiece, whilst there was a 1-1 draw in August at The Showgrounds.

The Bannsiders suffered a narrow 3-2 defeat against Crusaders when the two teams clashed at Seaview back in April and will undoubtedly be aiming to set the record straight come Saturday.

There is a lot at stake in Saturday’s game as both sides will be aiming to maintain their unbeaten runs for as long as possible.

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