Member's statement: Coleraine Football Club: Irish Cup Victory
Member's statement by Mr Maurice Bradley on .
- MLA
- Mr Maurice Bradley
- Party at the time
- Democratic Unionist Party
- Date
- 5 May 2026
- Type
- Member's statement
- Business
- Members' Statements
- Heading
- Coleraine Football Club: Irish Cup Victory
- Assembly identifier
- Official Report component 5524364
Read the official Assembly record
Text
It is with great pleasure today that I offer my heartfelt congratulations to Coleraine FC on a truly magnificent achievement on Saturday, as it won its seventh Irish Cup after a thrilling 3-2 win over Dungannon Swifts. That was made all the more important given the way in which Dungannon played under the management of Rodney McAree. It was a fantastic final — one of the best that I have seen in many years. This was not just a win; it was a statement and a showcase of resilience, quality and belief. To come through such a competitive final and emerge victorious speaks volumes about the character of the squad. Credit must go, first and foremost, to Henry Ross, Ranald and Patrick, the club shareholders; Dale Pryde-MacDonald, whose leadership as CEO has helped to guide the club with clarity and ambition; and manager Ruaidhrí Higgins and his backroom staff, whose technical acumen, preparation and commitment have been evident in every performance. To the players, what a journey you have delivered for the fans: runners-up in the league and Irish Cup winners. The run-in to the season after the split has been nothing short of exceptional. Week after week, you have treated supporters to some of the most entertaining football for many's a day at the Showgrounds. The attacking intent, cohesion and spirit have re-energised the club and supporters alike. The triumph feels especially significant as we look ahead to next year, with the centenary of Coleraine Football Club's acceptance into the Irish League in 1927. Born from an amalgamation of Coleraine Olympic and Coleraine Alexandra, the club has grown into a cornerstone of Northern Ireland football. To mark that milestone on the back of cup success feels both fitting and symbolic. Today, we celebrate not just a victory but a legacy — past, present and future. I pay a personal tribute to big Colin and the patrons of Patsy's Bar in the town for their personal messages of support over the past week. I had to get that in, Mr Speaker.
Once again, congratulations to everyone connected to Coleraine Football Club. You have done your town proud.
357 words. Text as published by the Northern Ireland Assembly.
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