Limavady United’s two-match winning run came to an end with a 1-0 defeat away to league leaders Coleraine, in front of a crowd of 2,577 at the Showgrounds, though there was plenty for the visiting supporters to take heart from.
Coleraine dominated the early stages, Adam Brooks heading narrowly wide and Will Patching also going close, while Limavady defended resolutely and threatened themselves from a long throw, only for John Butcher’s effort to be blocked. The breakthrough came right on the stroke of half-time: Ben Doherty found the run of captain Joel Cooper with a defence-splitting pass, and Cooper raced through to slip the ball under Marty Gallagher.
Cooper continued to threaten after the restart, and Ruaidhri Higgins’ side pushed for a second, but Limavady continued to frustrate the league leaders and created a late chance of their own from another long throw, with Coleraine goalkeeper Lewis Webb gathering comfortably to preserve the clean sheet.
It’s a tough result against tough opposition, but the performance will give Paul Owens plenty to build on. Limavady United are back at The Showgrounds next against Cliftonville — see the Match Centre for the latest fixtures and results.