UP FOR THE CUP

The Bannsiders will face either Larne Tech Old Boys or Rathfriland in the game, which is scheduled for The Showgrounds on January 14th.

Larne Tech OB of course are captained by former Bannsider Gary Haveron, who made the switch to the Amateur League side in the summer after calling time on his career with Ballymena United.

Striker Curtis Allen though is expecting a tough tie no matter who gets through.

“It looks on paper to be an easy draw, but whichever of the two teams gets through, it’ll be a big game for them and they’ll be keen to do well,” he said after the draw.

“We’re happy with the home draw and we’ll be treating it like any other game and when it comes around we’ll be aiming to go through.

“We’ve obviously already made it into the final of the IRN-BRU Cup and we feel that we can beat anyone on our day, which makes the cup competitions realistic targets.

“Coleraine have always had a great tradition in the cups and it’s one we’re hopeful of continuing this season.”

Boss Oran Kearney is also expecting a difficult test against the amateurs.

“A home draw was what we wanted first and foremost and we’re happy to get that.

“Whoever we end up playing, we certainly won’t be taking them lightly.

“At this stage of the Irish Cup there is always the potential for a shock, for one of the big boys to get turned over and put simply, we can’t allow it to be us.

“It’s down to us to get our preparation right, to approach the game in a professional manner and ensure we book our place in the next round.”

The draw has thrown up an interesting all-Premiership tie as Glenavon take on Portadown. The Lurgan Blues unveiled new Player Boss Gary Hamilton last Thursday following Marty Quinn’s departure last month.

Hamilton will be assisted at Mourneview Park by former Coleraine skipper Pat McAllister.

Holders Linfield have been handed a home draw against Ballyclare Comrades.