United effort for clean sheets – Brown

COLERAINE defender Rodney Brown admits yesterday’s win against Portadown wasn’t great on the eye but was pleased to see another three points banked for their efforts…

In a game of very few clear cut chances, the Bannsiders would pick up maximum points as Paul Finnegan’s own goal was added to Matthew Shevlin’s deadly finish after the break.

Speaking to Coleraine TV post-match, Brown acknowledged he and his team-mates had to grind the win out as they remained in third spot in the Danske Bank Premiership.

“I thought it was a very tough game,” he said.

“All credit must go to Portadown as I thought they came here, set up their stall and they did well.

“We had to break them down in our way and it wasn’t going for us too much but thankfully we got the two goals and three points.

“It was one of those games but thankfully we won it.”

Coleraine registered their seventh clean sheet in Premiership duty against Matthew Tipton’s side but Brown was quick to reference that it is a team effort to keep the back door shut.

“The clean sheets are very important,” he stated.

“I think they are coming from the front, then the midfield and onto us at the back.

“I think Gareth Deane has been super all season and long may it continue.”

Brown – who rejoined the club in the summer from Crusaders – insists he is loving his second stint at The Showgrounds ahead of next week’s visit to Carrick Rangers.

“It’s been brilliant since I’ve came back,” he continued.

“I’m loving my football again, I’m playing with a smile on my face and I’m absolutely enjoying it.

“We have already played Carrick twice at their place this season so we know what to expect.

“It’s going to a tough game but we’ll be going there for all three points.”