Coleraine 3-0 Portadown: Bannsiders Dominate in Pre-Season Run-Out

Coleraine put on an impressive display at the Showgrounds on Saturday night, sweeping aside Portadown 3-0 in an International Club Friendly. The result extended the Bannsiders' unbeaten pre-season record and highlighted their sharpness ahead of the new Irish Premiership campaign.

First Half Control

Coleraine dominated from the outset, keeping possession and forcing Portadown deep into their own half. The breakthrough came in the 18th minute when a slick passing move ended with a low cross being turned home at the near post. The home side doubled their lead before the interval with a fine solo effort – the winger cut inside from the right and curled a shot into the top corner.

Second Half Consolidation

Portadown attempted to push forward after the restart but struggled to create clear-cut chances against a well-organised Coleraine defence. The Bannsiders added a third goal midway through the second half, capitalising on a defensive error to make the scoreline comfortable. The visitors rarely threatened, with Coleraine's goalkeeper having a quiet evening.

Key Performers

• Coleraine's Winger: Scored one and assisted another; his pace and dribbling were a constant threat.
• Coleraine's Midfielder: Controlled the tempo of the game with precise passing and intelligent movement.
• Portadown's Goalkeeper: Made several good saves to prevent an even heavier defeat.

Tactical Observations

Coleraine manager Dean Shiels set his team up in a 4-2-3-1 formation that allowed the attacking midfielders to roam and create overloads. Portadown, under Niall Currie, attempted to play on the counter but lacked the final ball in the final third. The Bannsiders' defensive organisation was a standout feature, with the back four rarely troubled.

Pre-Season Significance

Both sides used the fixture to build fitness and integrate new signings. Coleraine's convincing win will give them confidence ahead of the new NIFL Premiership season, where they will aim to challenge for European places. Portadown, who compete in the NIFL Championship, will look to sharpen their attacking edge before the league kicks off.

Match played: 18 July 2026 | International Club Friendly