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After a season like no other clubs are finally closing in on the final few fixtures in the Danske Bank Premiership.

Today sees the last games before the top six/bottom six split.

It has been a lung-busting effort from players to get this far playing practically every Saturday-Tuesday since the turn of the year.

Coleraine head to Ballymena Showgrounds today having had a rare eight-day break between games following their 1-1 draw at home to Glentoran last Friday night.

Despite being one of the elder statesmen of the Bannsiders squad Eoin Bradley says he has enjoyed the schedule, but he added the break has helped them recharge the batteries again ahead of the derby clash.

“It’s been good and it keeps you busy,” said ‘Skinner’.

“A lot of the boys were tired but we have had eight days off now before the derby against Ballymena United.

“Everybody knows what those games means to the club and the fans, so it has given us time to rest and get back at it.

“Three points are a must on Saturday.

“Ballymena are on a good run, it won’t be easy but if you have to get up for a derby then there is something wrong with you.”

Oran Kearney’s men slipped down to third place in midweek as Glentoran took advantage of their inactivity to leapfrog them following their win over Cliftonville.

After playing Mick McDermott’s side twice in quick succession Bradley feels there’s not much to choose between the sides, and he adds Coleraine will push all the way to secure a European spot.

“I’d say over the two games, the two draws were probably fair results,” he said.

“They’re a full-time team so we knew it wasn’t going to be easy but we showed great character in both games.

“We never get it easy against Glentoran especially now that they’re full-time but we battled hard and made sure we got something out of the games.

“Linfield are now 11 points clear of us so it’s not looking good for first place but there’s still plenty to play for in terms of European qualification,” he added.

Danske Bank Premiership Team of the Week

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Eoin Bradley says Coleraine are recharged and raring to go again