FOOTBALL: We are now starting to realise our potential - Beverland

The defender, who has racked up 186 appearances for the Showgrounds outfit, has saw a lot in his time with the club.

But under the guidance of Oran Kearney the Bannsiders are buoyant, and the 22-year-old is hoping for big things although he’s keeping a lid on it at the minute.

“The club’s always had potential, but for as long as I can remember, that’s all it has really had,” Beverland said.

“Oran has come in and really built something strong, on top of what was always there.

“We certainly have helped ourselves this season by having a good pre-season and our fitness has been excellent.

“Towards the last 20 minutes of games, we’re still going strong. Some of our goals are coming late, too, when other teams are tiring.

“Our preparation has been first class, and that’s down to the coaching staff, of course.

“We had a tough run of matches at the start of the season, with Crusaders, Linfield, Glentoran and Portadown, and came away with seven points from them.

“We aren’t getting carried away, it is still early on. But we fully believe we have even more in the tank and are pacing ourselves well.”

With concentrated ability in all areas of the park, Coleraine are tipped to forge a meaningful title challenge.

His natural leadership and team-player style are qualities, naturally, but Beverland is happy to take care of defensive priorities. Saturday’s 2-0 win over Dungannon Swifts handed Coleraine just their third clean sheet this season.

“In football, you can get pretty technical about things but I think it’s quite black and white.

“The forwards will take care of the goals scored column while I know I focus on the goals conceded. A clean sheet for a defender is like a goal for a striker.

“Consistency is the key, and if we can all take responsibility, as well as sharing it and keeping our own personal targets, we should be alright.

“There is a great buzz at the club and long may that continue. We are going places,” he added.