Q Radio Sport
Coleraine extended their lead at the top of the Danske Bank Premiership to eight points on Tuesday night by beating basement battlers Ballinamallard 2-1 at the Showgrounds.
The home side went in front on 50 minutes through a Colm McLaughlin own goal before striker Joe McCready doubled the deficit four minutes later.
The Mallards kept fighting and pulled one back through Matthew Smyth 19 minutes from time.
Bannsiders boss Oran Kearney expected a tough test and got it.
FT: Coleraine 2-1 Ballinamallard
— Coleraine FC (@ColeraineFC) October 31, 2017
Thank goodness for that - Coleraine earn all three points via an own goal and #McCreadyMagic #COTB
Furious Mallards manager Gavin Dykes feels his team got a raw deal from the officials.
FT Coleraine 2-1 Ballinamallard. The league leaders continue their fine form, with a victory over bottom placed Mallards.
— Ballinamallard Utd (@Ballinamallard) October 31, 2017
Coleraine are now set for a top of the table clash away to Glenavon on Saturday.
The Lurgan Blues are aiming to cut the gap to five points and they have a game in hand.
Ballinamallard welcome Linfield to Ferney Park.