Glentoran became increasingly physical as the game progressed and Armstrong should have been at least booked for a flying leap into Sam Shiels as the striker burst clear. A number of late tackles and flying elbows were also in evidence as Glentoran attempted to muscle their way back into the game. The half ended with a spell of Glentoran pressure as their long-ball tactics pushed the action into the Coleraine defensive area, but steady play by the Bannsiders' defensive unit and a couple of good saves by Lamont ensured that the lead was protected into the break.

The first 10 minutes of the second half saw sustained Glentoran pressure without really creating a single good chance and, having weathered this early storm, Coleraine began to pass the ball around and take the heat out of the game. Indeed the lead was nearly extended during this spell when David McCallan fired over the bar from close-range. The last 10 minutes saw a return to all-out Glentoran attack as they searched desperately for the goal that would send the tie into extra-time, but despite a number of dangerous corner kicks, the Coleraine defence held firm.

1. Wesley Lamont

His best game since joining the club from Linfield. Made two or three good saves and commanded the area well. Recovered quickly from his only fumble at the start of the second half. (7)

2. Oliver McAuley

The solid performance we have come to expect. Most of Glentoran's early attacks came down the left side, but were confidently dealt with. (7)

3. Robbie Brunton

Excellent performance in both defence and attack. Very solid in the tackle and used the ball well. A contender for Man of the Match. (8)

4. Brendan Aspinall

Man of the Match. The last couple of games have seen Aspinall settle into a solid partnership with Paul Gaston. A colossus in the heart of the defence. (9)

5. Paul Gaston

Another good performance, but was caught out once when he appeared to lose concentration in the first half. (7)

6. Eamon Doherty

A fantastic goal, tigerish tackling and visionary passing. Just business as usual for the Doc. (9)

7. Sam Shiels

Worked like a trojan and was always a handful for the Glens' defence. (7)

8. Greg O'Dowd

Worked hard on the right wing. Greg is building a good understanding with SuperOl in attacking situations. (7)

9. David McCallan

A busy performance - always available. (7)

10. Pat McAllister

Booked in the first minute, but was still a commanding figure in the centre of midfield. Gave invaluable help to the defense when Glentoran put the pressure on. (8)

11. Michael Surgeon

Another good performance from the Surge. Saw a fine effort well saved in the first half, and revelled in his role behind the front two. (8)

sub Johnny McIvor (for O'Dowd)

A couple of runs releived the pressure on the defence at important times. (6)

sub Andy Ramage (for McAuley)

Slotted into the centre of midfield, allowing Eamon Doherty to move to right-back and made an important contribution in the final 10 minutes. (6)