Coleraine Football Club stewards have thanked fans for their co-operation at last night's Danske Bank Premiership opener.
The Bannsiders had around 450 fans at the Showgrounds for their game against Ballymena United.
The game was played less than two hours after Minister for Communities Carál Ní Chuilín announced it was necessary to stop spectators from attending sporting events under new Covid guidelines.
A number of Coleraine fans were already inside the Showgrounds when the announcement was made, with many more congregated outside ahead of the 7.45pm kick-off.
Fans were eventually allowed entry into the ground, with Coleraine chairman Colin McKendry saying the club had taken the decision based on the health and safety of spectators who were already at the ground.
The supporters in attendance adhered to strict Covid regulations at the game, including temperature checks on entry and social distancing in the stands.
Chief steward Chris Gray thanked the supporters for their co-operation, and to Ballymena United boss David Jeffrey who praised Coleraine for their handling of the occasion under testing conditions.
"We would just like to put on record our thanks and appreciation to the supporters in attendance last night," Chris said.
"Clubs are working tirelessly to ensure everyone complies with current Covid regulations, and the supporters appreciate that and have helped out.
"We know these are testing times and it takes a joint approach.
"We would also like to thank Ballymena manager David Jeffrey for his kind words after the game.
"We are currently working under difficult conditions to make sure the Irish League can get up and running and continue to run smoothly.
"David's comments are greatly appreciated."
