Trouble free Cup Final plea
Thursday, 26 January 2012
Mayor of Coleraine, Alderman Maurice
THE Mayor of Coleraine has appealed for Coleraine supporters attending Saturday's IRN-BRU League Cup final against Crusaders in Ballymena to be on their best behaviour. Alderman Maurice Bradley's appeal follows an article in a Sunday newspaper inferring that a section of Coleraine supporters could mar the day by causing violence in and around the town.
However, in sending his best wishes to the club ahead of the game, he accused the newspaper of stirring up tensions ahead of what should be a memorable occasion.
“Almost 3,000 supporters will be at Ballymena Showgrounds, most travelling direct by bus or car, and I would appeal to all supporters travelling to the final to be on their best behaviour," said the mayor.
“Some Sunday papers have been trying to stir up agitation and I would appeal to all, especially the young supporters, to bear in mind that we can show the football public in Northern Ireland that we are Coleraine, we are the best supporters in the country and we are the best behaved in the country too."
The Mayor, a keen Coleraine supporter, says Saturday's final represents a great opportunity for Oran Kearney and his players to restore some pride in the borough.
Buzz
“There is a real buzz about Coleraine at the moment," continued Alderman Bradley.
“The supporters have been playing their part with the Ballycastle Road and the main route through the town bedecked in the blue and white of the Bannsiders.
“No-one can fault their efforts to make sure the players know that the town is behind them on Saturday. In fact, everything seems to be slotting into place nicely at the club. The new manager has instilled belief in the players and the fans have responded.
“Coleraine have recently announced their Community Audit, as part of the IFA initiative and they have a thriving football Academy, run by a dedicated squad of coaches and administrators.
“This is a club building for the future with the community at heart to become the heart of the community and restore pride in this club and borough. "I would take this opportunity to wish Oran, the coaches and players a successful day and 'Come on the Bannsiders!'"
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