Statement win for Coleraine First XV

Coleraine RFC 19–13 Strabane RFC

Championship Two, Saturday November 7

Coleraine Rugby Club’s First XV delivered a statement performance on Saturday afternoon, securing an impressive 19–13 victory over high-flying Strabane in what could prove to be a defining moment in their Championship Two campaign.

It has been a challenging start to the 2026/27 season for Coleraine, with a combination of injuries, disrupted team selections and results not always reflecting the efforts of the squad.

However, Saturday’s victory over one of the league’s leading sides served as a timely reminder of the quality, determination and competitive spirit within the Coleraine ranks.

Facing a Strabane outfit enjoying a strong league campaign, Coleraine knew that a significant performance would be required.

The home side responded with resilience, discipline and a determination to demonstrate that they thoroughly deserve their place in Championship 2.

Joel Chambers played a crucial role with the boot, converting important penalties to keep the scoreboard ticking over, while Simon McLean crossed the whitewash for a vital try.

Together with a committed defensive effort across the park, these contributions helped Coleraine secure a hard-fought and thoroughly deserved six-point victory.

The result represents considerably more than another league win.

For a Coleraine side that has endured its fair share of setbacks in recent months, it was an opportunity to reaffirm its credentials and show that, despite the difficult opening to the season, the squad possesses the ability to compete with the very best in the division.

Gallagher Praises Character and Belief

Head Coach Kevin Gallagher praised the character and resilience of his squad, highlighting the importance of maintaining belief during a challenging period.

“It has been a frustrating season for us so far,” he admitted.

“We’ve had a difficult run with injuries and there have been games where we simply haven’t got the results that our performances deserved.

“But I’ve never questioned the ability or character of this group of players.

“Strabane are up there at the top of the league for a reason, so to come away with a result like this is hugely encouraging.

“We knew we were capable of competing at this level and, today, the boys have demonstrated exactly that.

“The important thing now is that we build on this performance. One result doesn’t define a season, but hopefully this gives the squad the confidence and belief to push forward.

“We have shown that we belong in Championship Two and now we need to produce that standard consistently.”

Robinson Hails Squad’s Determination

For First XV captain Matthew Robinson, the victory was a reward for the commitment and perseverance of a squad that has continued to work hard despite a difficult run of results.

“There’s no hiding from the fact that it’s been a tough few months for us,” he said.

“Injuries have meant we’ve had to adapt week after week and, when results aren’t going your way, it can be difficult to get momentum going.

“But the belief within the changing room has never disappeared. We know the quality we have in this squad and I think today was about proving a point, not just to the teams around us in the league, but to ourselves as well.

“Every player put in a massive shift and that’s the level of commitment we need to bring every Saturday.

“Beating one of the top sides in the league shows what we’re capable of when we get things right.

“Hopefully this is the turning point we’ve been working towards.”

A Platform to Build Upon

While the victory will provide a significant confidence boost, Coleraine will be determined to ensure that Saturday’s performance becomes the foundation for a more consistent run of results.

There is still plenty of rugby to be played this season, and with players working their way back from injury and confidence growing within the squad, there is every reason for optimism about the challenges ahead.

Most importantly, Saturday’s result sent a clear message to the rest of Championship Two: Coleraine are not simply here to make up the numbers.

They belong at this level and they are more than capable of challenging the league’s strongest sides.

Full Time: Coleraine RFC 19–13 Strabane RFC