After Glentoran closed 2012 with a fantastic 5-0 victory over Donegal Celtic at The Oval on Saturday, The Glens look to build on that form into the new year as we face Coleraine at the Showgrounds this New Year's Day. With the recent pile-up of fixtures it is possible Eddie Patterson may rotate a few fresh legs in the squad. Thankfully due to the convincing performance on Saturday; Stephen Carson and Jimmy Callacher were able to be substituted however Jay Magee also was taken off on precaution after a niggle picked up in the game. Colin Nixon remains out after surgery.
The Glens travel to Coleraine in what will undoubtedly be a close encounter. Only goal difference seperates the two sides in 4th and 5th place on 37 points, with both teams having a game in hand over Linfield two points ahead in 3rd. Glentoran are the side on top of the goal difference battle with +16 in contrast to just +5 for Coleraine.
Glentoran have struggled against Coleraine of recent not having beaten them in either game so far this season. A 0-0 draw at The Oval was followed by a particularly disappointing defeat at The Showgrounds last month by 1-0. That performance was one of the rare poor displays from the team so far this season and particularly difficult for the fans to take after a long journey to and from the game. Glentoran fans will be looking for the side to bounce back tomorrow and give the fans something to cheer about.
The crowds at both the Linfield game on Boxing Day and the Donegal Celtic game on Saturday have been excellent and highlight the importance the festive period has to local football. It would be fantastic to see another great travelling support tomorrow to cheer the side on.
For tomorrow's game against Coleraine at The Showgrounds, The Internet Glentoran Supporters Club have a bus leaving the Park Avenue Hotel at 1.15pm. All non-members are welcome.
Glentoran Football Club would like to wish all supporters a Happy New Year and hopefully 2013 will bring silverware back to The Oval.