McGonigle is the hero as Reserves see off Linfield in thriller

In-form striker Jamie McGonigle will grab the headlines as he helped himself to a hat-trick, but the entire team was excellent as Coleraine opened up a five point gap at the top of the table.

The hosts fought back from a goal donw as Jordan Grissam pulled them level before McGonigle edged them in front with his first of the game, and that’s how it stayed until the break.

McGonigle made it 3-1 just after the restart, but two quick goals from the Blues tied the game up at 3-3.

It was real end-to-end stuff now and Coleraine took the lead again as Oran Barton slotted home. Linfield were to draw level yet again though as they converted from the spot after a very soft penalty award.

The Bannsiders didn’t let their heads drop though and they made it 5-4 as McGonigle showed great composure to make it 5-4 and complete his hat-trick

And just before the end Emmet Dysart fired home the sixth to seal a deserved with for Johnny Law’s young side.

Speaking afterwards McGonigle was delighted to grab the win and his treble.

“It’s an unreal feeling to win that game,” he said. “It’s three brilliant points for us. I’m buzzing for gettin my first hat-trick for Coleraine, but it was a great performance from all the lads.”

First team boss Oran Kearney heaped praise on the second string and their achievements to date.

“It is brilliant to see lads do so well,” he said.

“They are such an integral part of the club.

“Players like Adam Mullan and Lyndon Kane have made the step up to the first team over the last few months and have slotted in superbly.

“There’s a few more players we are keeping an eye on and have big hopes for also.”