Top-of-the-table clash at The Showgrounds

COLERAINE welcome Crusaders to The Showgrounds this weekend as they bid to regain top spot in the Danske Bank Premiership (KO 3pm)…

By Aaron O’Neill

The Bannsiders go into the game in fine form after Eoin Bradley’s neat finish was enough to secure all three points on the road keeping Oran Kearney’s well in contention for league honours. Coleraine go into the fixture a solitary point behind their opponents but remain unbeaten against Stephen Baxter’s side in the league so far this season.

The sides have clashed in the Danske Bank Premiership on 2 occasions this season with little to separate the teams. Coleraine enjoyed a successful trip to Seaview back in August coming away with all 3 points to mark Oran Kearney’s first win at the home of Crusaders since the start of his reign as Coleraine manager.

The return fixture at the Showgrounds in November saw the sides take a share of the spoils. Jamie McGonigle’s effort gave the Bannsiders the lead only to be denied all 3 points by a late goal from ex-Coleraine defender Howard Beverland, but the Coleraine boss suggests this has no bearing on Saturday’s game.

“It’s all about who turns up on Saturday and who wants it more,” Kearney said.

“What’s happened this season has happened and it’s all put to bed so now it’s about what happens in the future.”

Coleraine have enjoyed a successful start to the New Year as they remain unbeaten. The Stripes will be hoping to put an end to Crusaders unbeaten streak – which has now stretched to 20 games – however Coleraine boss Oran Kearney expects a tough test.

“It’s a big game but there are 14 or 15 of those left to play,” Kearney added.

“We don’t place priority on fixtures and we don’t place priority on opposition in relation to what is classed as a high ranking or a low ranking win as each one is worth 3 points.”

With nothing to report by way of fresh injuries, the Bannsiders should nearly be back to full strength as Lyndon Kane has stepped up his recovery after bagging a goal playing for the reserve team last weekend. James McLaughlin remains sidelined for the rest of the season as the striker continues his rehabilitation from a cruciate knee injury. However, defender Gareth McConaghie is available after serving a one-match suspension.

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

Supporters are reminded that they will require a matchday card/season ticket to enter ground.