Strabane rematch could prove pivotal in title race

COLERAINE Rugby Club’s First XV delivered one of their most complete performances of the season on Saturday, claiming a deserved 19–5 victory over Strabane at Rugby Avenue to move top of the league.
Against a powerful and well-organised Strabane side widely viewed as title contenders, Coleraine showed composure, physicality and tactical discipline throughout an absorbing contest.
From the opening whistle, the home side made their intentions clear. Strong carries from the pack laid an early platform, while the backline looked sharp and direct whenever space was created.
The defensive effort was equally impressive, with Coleraine repeatedly halting Strabane attacks through well-timed tackles and excellent line speed.
Coleraine struck first through Simon McLean, who finished confidently after sustained pressure inside the Strabane 22.
The try rewarded a period of dominance and settled any early nerves among the home supporters.
Joel Chambers added the conversion to give Coleraine early control on the scoreboard.
Strabane responded with intensity, using their physical forwards to test Coleraine’s defensive resolve.
However, the home side stood firm, with disciplined breakdown work and intelligent kicking relieving pressure at key moments.
The second Coleraine try came through Zach Herald, who showed great awareness and strength to power over the line, extending the lead and swinging momentum firmly back towards the hosts.
The third try of the afternoon came courtesy of Ben King, whose finish capped off a flowing team move that showcased Coleraine’s growing confidence and attacking cohesion.
Chambers once again stepped up from the tee, ensuring Coleraine were rewarded for their clinical execution.
Despite being reduced to limited opportunities, Strabane continued to battle managing to get the ball across the line for a deserved five points.
However, Coleraine’s defensive organisation and game management ensured there would be no late dramas, allowing the home side to see out the match with authority and secure a vital league win.
A standout performance came from Jake King (No.12), who was deservedly named Man of the Match. Dominant in midfield, King’s defensive reads, strong carries, and leadership were central to Coleraine’s success.
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Reflecting on the result, Head Coach Andy Ward was full of praise for his players’ attitude and execution.
“That was a huge performance against one of the strongest sides in the league,” he said.
“The work rate, physicality and discipline were outstanding. We spoke all week about controlling what we could control and the players delivered exactly that.”
Captain Matthew Robinson emphasised the unity and resilience within the squad.
“We knew this would be a tough battle and everyone bought into the challenge,” he said.
“The defensive effort was massive and when opportunities came, we took them. This group is really growing together and results like this show what we’re capable of.”
First XV Manager Chris Coils highlighted the broader significance of the victory.
“This was an important moment in our season,” he offered.
“To beat a side like Strabane and go top of the league is a credit to the players and coaching staff. The commitment shown both in training and on matchday is paying off.”
With little time to reflect, attention now turns to the return fixture against Strabane this Saturday (December 20), a match that could prove decisive in the league title race.
Having laid down a marker at Rugby Avenue, Coleraine will be eager to build on this momentum, knowing that another disciplined and determined performance will be required against a Strabane side certain to respond.
As the season approaches a critical stage, Coleraine First XV have firmly announced themselves as genuine contenders, combining grit, skill, and belief in front of their home support.