Larne started the new season with a goalless draw against Coleraine, but manager Gary Haveron was adamant that the fixture should have been postponed due to the team's European commitments.

What happened?

The game was played at the Coleraine Showgrounds, with both teams cancelling each other out in a goalless draw. Coleraine had the better of the opportunities in the first half through strike partners Joel Cooper and Matthew Shevlin, while Larne's Conor McKendry and Matthew Lusty were denied by outstanding stops from Lewis Webb.

Why it matters for Larne

Gary Haveron expressed his frustration on Larne's social media platforms, stating that the Northern Ireland Football League should have intervened and postponed the game. He felt that the league didn't step in and take control of the situation, which led to unnecessary risks for the players.

What comes next?

Larne's next fixture is against Crusaders FC at home on December 12, 2026. The team will be looking to bounce back from this draw and continue their push for a top spot in the league. Meanwhile, Gary Haveron will be hoping that the league takes his concerns seriously and makes changes to the fixture schedule to avoid similar situations in the future.

Thoughts on the match

Gary Haveron praised his team's defensive efforts, stating that they defended well and dug in when they had to. However, he was critical of the referee's decisions, feeling that some of the niggly little things that got unnoticed or unpunished.

Request for postponement

Gary Haveron believes that the league should have intervened and postponed the game due to Larne's European commitments. He feels that the league should have taken control of the situation and made the right decision for the players' safety and well-being.

Dan Bent injury

The game was marred by an injury to Dan Bent, who was kicked in the back by an opponent. Gary Haveron felt that the incident was unnecessary and that the referee should have taken action to prevent it.

Next fixture

Larne's next fixture is against Crusaders FC at home on December 12, 2026. The team will be looking to bounce back from this draw and continue their push for a top spot in the league.