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Joel Cooper brace sees Coleraine stun Larne in five-goal thriller at Inver Park

The Bannsiders came back from 2-0 down to claim three precious points in this season's title race

By Ian Cahoon · Belfast Live

Published: Saturday, 17 October 2026 at 9:33 AM

Key Things to Know

Coleraine rallied from 2-0 down to defeat Larne 3-2 in a dramatic thriller at Inver Park.
Joel Cooper netted twice, scoring in the 60th and 81st minutes to complete the Bannsiders' comeback.
James Simpson scored both goals for defending champions Larne, tapping home after two minutes and again on 50 minutes.

The Story in 60 Seconds

Coleraine mounted a stunning second-half comeback from two goals down to defeat reigning champions Larne 3-2 at Inver Park. A brace from James Simpson put the hosts comfortably in front after 50 minutes. However, Joel Cooper scored twice alongside a Matthew Shevlin header to seal a vital victory for Ruaidhrí Higgins' side.

Cooper kickstarted the revival on the hour mark before Shevlin equalized with a powerful header on 69 minutes. Moments after Larne substitute Kevin O'Hara struck the crossbar, Cooper sealed the dramatic comeback with an 81st-minute half-volley to send Coleraine six points clear at the top.

Read the full article on Belfast Live

Joel Cooper brace sees Coleraine stun Larne in five-goal thriller at Inver Park

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