“We need our fans to be loud” – OK

COLERAINE boss Oran Kearney has issued a rallying call for an electric atmosphere as the Bannsiders host FK Velez Mostar in the second leg of the Europa Conference League this evening (KO 8pm)…

Europa Conference League First Qualifying Round

Overview:

Coleraine will know they need to overcome a one goal deficit after last week’s 2-1 defeat in Sarajevo. The Bannsiders made a dream start as Ben Doherty netted after nine minutes to give Coleraine the lead. However, a tale of two penalties – either side of half-time – means the Bosnian side have a slender advantage going into tonight’s clash at Mourneview Park. Oran Kearney will have to do without the services of full-back Lyndon Kane through suspension after his red card in the first leg.

FK Velez Mostar have played twice in the UK in European competition against Hearts in 1988-89 (3-0 defeat) and Derby County in 1974-75 (3-1 defeat). The Bosnian side finished 3rd in last season’s top flight and are managed by Feda Dudic.

Manager’s Thoughts:

“We are looking forward to it,” Kearney said.

“It’s all about creating more memories and at times it’s about zooming out and reminding the players about what it took to get here.

“It was an eight or nine month slog to get this opportunity so we aren’t going out without a fight.

“It was really hostile out in Bosnia but it was enjoyable to have the fans and the noise back.

“Mourneview is a good ground as it’s nicely enclosed so 500 or 600 people could sound like 5,000 or 6,000.

“We need our fans to be loud and as politely hostile as possible but we need to make sure we give it a real good rattle.”

Admission:

Home tickets for the fixture have SOLD OUT, with no away fans permitted into the stadium.

However, the match will be streamed live via the club’s YouTube account for free HERE.

Supporters are advised that hot food outlets will be open in the stadium for the game.

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