Kearney frustrated as Killie pull out of friendly

The two clubs were due to meet at the Showgrounds on July 17, but following the departure of Kenny Shiels from Rugby Park this week the SPL outfit have pulled the plug on the game.

Kilmarnock are also scheduled to play Glentoran as part of goalkeeper Elliott Morris’ testimonial but now doubts have been cast over that friendly going ahead.

Kearney said: “It is definitely cancelled. We had been in contact with Kilmarnock this week and they got back to us today.

“They felt with the change of circumstances at the club that they couldn’t fulfil the game.

“We had an idea something like this might happen when we heard of the situation surrounding Kenny.”

“It is disappointing because it would have been a big game given Kenny’s connection with Coleraine,” Kearney added.

“But we have other games which will form part of our pre-season preparation.