Coleraine Faces Tough Test Against Reigning Champions Larne at the Showgrounds

Coleraine's manager Dean Shiels is steeling his side for a challenging encounter as they prepare to host reigning champions Larne at the Showgrounds this Sunday. Following a disappointing 2-0 defeat to Glenavon, Shiels acknowledges that facing Larne is no small feat, particularly given their current injury woes. Shiels expressed his concerns in an interview with BBC Sport NI, stating, "Larne will be a tough ask; there is no denying that." With key players such as Jamie Glackin and Matthew Shevlin unavailable, the Bannsiders are looking to regroup and find a way to compete against a formidable opponent. The absence of these players could significantly impact Coleraine's strategy as they seek to bounce back from their recent loss. This match marks Larne's inaugural Irish Premiership fixture of the season after a series of postponements, necessitated by their commendable journey into the UEFA Conference League group stage. While this extended break could signal potential rustiness, Shiels is not underestimating the threat posed by Tiernan Lynch's squad. He remains acutely aware of the depth and quality available to Larne, stating, "If you look at Larne's squad, they could fill two teams with quality." Shiels is confident that Larne's European commitments will not hinder their performance. He remarked, "I don't think it will be an issue for them playing Thursday then Sunday," suggesting that Larne's squad has the resilience and depth to handle the demands of a packed schedule. As Coleraine gears up for this important clash, Shiels emphasizes the need for his team to focus on their own performance. "We just need to concentrate on ourselves and be ready," he said, indicating that preparation and resilience will be crucial if the Bannsiders hope to secure a positive result against the champions. Fans are anticipating a competitive match as Coleraine looks to turn their fortunes around, while Larne aims to start their league campaign on a high note. The showdown at the Showgrounds promises to be an exciting affair, with both teams eager to make their mark early in the season.