KEARNEY: WE LOVE THIS CUP

1,230 days.. Bannsiders out to extend reign

Coleraine v Cliftonville Windsor Park, today, 3pm

(Live on Sky Sports)

BY DARREN FULLERTON COLERAINE will put a 1,230 day record on the line when they face high-flying Cliftonville in today’s BetMcLean League Cup final at Windsor Park.

It is now three and half years since the cup holders suffered a defeat in the competition when they lost on penalties to Glentoran at the Oval in October 2018.

Donald Trump was US President, Maurizio Sarri was Chelsea boss and the Coleraine team included Darren McCauley, Ciaron Harkin and Jamie McGonigle.

Yes, the fact the

League Cup wasn’t played last season because of the Covid-19 pandemic helped pad out a remarkable stat.

But after lifting it as manager in 2020, thanks to a 2-1 win over Crusaders, Bannsiders boss Oran Kearney is eager to keep his hands on the trophy.

Ahead of today’s showpiece in front of a record 10,000 crowd, Kearney said: “I remember the 2020 final like it was yesterday and the joy it brought to everyone at the club.

“We’ve enjoyed our little bit of extra time with the trophy because of Covid and it would be fantastic if we could take it back to the North Coast on Sunday.”

In two spells as Coleraine manager, not only has Kearney enjoyed a number of title challenges, he has also helped the Bannsiders build a reputation as a cup team.

The Ballycastle Road men have won 23 of their last 28 outings in knockout competitions, lifting the Irish Cup in 2018 and League Cup in 2020 in the process.

“We have a lot of guys who have big game experience in cup competitions and we hope they can bring that on Sunday,” said Kearney.

“We’re all in football for the big moments and big opportunities and this is another one of those moments and opportunities.”

To keep their hands on the trophy, Coleraine will have to overcome an in-form Cliftonville side who are in the midst of a league title race with Linfield and Glentoran.

But while the Reds have received a lot of plaudits for their football this season, boss Paddy McLaughlin would rather be judged on tangible reward.

“We’re in good form, but we’ll have to be at our maximum to get the better of Coleraine,” said McLaughlin.

“It’s a big occasion and it would be a tremendous reward, especially for the players who have put in a lot of hard work all season long.

“We’ve received pats on backs for good performances this season, but we are in this game to win trophies and medals and this is an opportunity to tick that box.”