Irish Cup Final: Lydon Kane aim for Irish Cup glory after missing out in 2018

After playing in three of their five games en route to the final, Kane was forced to become only a regular spectator on cup final day, but under then-manager Oran Carney, his side provided for the injured defender.

The Bannsiders were desperate to end a 15-year wait for silverware and with a talented squad that came close to success in the league and cup.

They lost the 2017 Irish Cup final against Linfield 3–0 and finished second in the Irish Premiership in the 2017–18 season, losing just one game but finishing two points behind eventual champions Crusaders.

They went ahead early in the second half as midfielder Darren McAuley volleyed home a superb final goal.

Cliftonville’s Rory Donnelly equalized from close range soon after, but substitute Aaron Burns restored their advantage after a neat flick from Bradley.

The striker then raced in from the halfway line to seal a famous victory with a late third after the Reds headed over for another equalizer before laying the ball over Brian Neeson.

Cue pandemonium from the Coleraine supporters behind the goal as well as the players and management team as Cairney famously charged the touchline to join in the celebrations of their first Irish Cup win since 2003.

It was even more special for local lads like Kane, Jamie McGonigle and Brad Lyons, who helped bring the trophy back to the North Coast.

“I got halfway down (Paal’s touchline is on) and had to meet them on the way back!” Ken told BBC Sport NI.

“It was disappointing (to miss) but me, as a fan, I still get a lot of satisfaction.

“As a player you want to play every big game, but maybe my connection with the club and we still won it, I know how important it is for the people and the city.”