Coleraine get the job done against Glenavon

Coleraine head coach Ruaidhri Higgins spoke in the build up to Friday night's game against Glenavon about just how difficult a game it would be.

That, despite 10 places and 36 points separating the sides before kick-off.

Some observers may have dismissed it as mere tokenism but, in the end, he was proven right.

While the home side didn't exactly labour to a 2-0 victory, there were times when the visitors made life distinctly uncomfortable for their illustrious opponents.

Particularly after half-time when Michael O'Connor's side belied their lowly league position to take the game to their hosts.

On another day they might have made life even more difficult for Higgins' side but in this league, as in any other, class tells.

Joel Cooper provided the finish Zane Okoro's lung bursting run from halfway deserved to give the hosts a first half lead before Jamie McGonigle climbed off the bench to add sparkle to a sweeping move started by Dylan Boyle and assisted by Dean Jarvis 10 minutes from the end.

The win sees Coleraine keep Larne - 2-1 victors over Bangor on the same night - honest in the title race.

Higgins admitted afterwards that his players weren't at their best but it was clear he derived a certain satisfaction, if not enjoyment, from the fact that they won whilst not playing well.

It's a mindset he's been at pains to instill since his arrival.

More of the same will be required at the Oval on Wednesday night as the club attempts to reach the Bet McLean Cup final.

More of which later.

For now, it's a case of job well done and another three points on the board.