Dean Smith and Loughgall are bidding for a return to winning ways when they take on Coleraine
Loughgall were left disappointed in the BetMcLean Cup when they fell to a 2-0 defeat at the hands of Portadown
Coleraine are targeting a swift return to winning ways after exiting the BetMcLean Cup with a defeat to Glenavon
Loughgall manager Dean Smith admits he anticipated “bumps along the road” as he aims to record a first Premiership victory in five matches.
The Villagers last tasted success in the League at the start of November against Ballymena United, meaning they have been leapfrogged into seventh spot in the table by in-form Glenavon.
However, Smith takes his Loughgall side to the Ballycastle Road on Saturday afternoon to face a Coleraine side who are also winless in four Premiership contests.
Furthermore, both clubs exited the BetMcLean Cup at the Quarter-Final stage, as Coleraine were ousted by Glenavon while Loughgall went down to mid-Ulster rivals Portadown.
“If you had offered me our points total and eighth place heading into December before a ball was kicked, I’d have ripped your hands off,” said Smith.
“Of course, with good results, you become greedy and want more, but you quickly realise it’s an unforgiving League as all the teams can punish you.
“We knew there would be bumps along the road, as it’s a relentless campaign, and I’m not concerned about a slump or anything like that. The bigger picture for Loughgall was to remain in the top-flight and we won’t deviate from that.
“We know that Coleraine will be a tough game, they have a fantastic group of players and are always strong at home.”
Loughgall have been handed a home tie against Northern Amateur Football League side Rosemount Rec in the Irish Cup in 2024.
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