Coleraine boss Oran Kearney is confident his players will continue silencing their critics as the season unfolds.
The Bannsiders recorded a superb 1-0 victory against Shamrock Rovers in their Setanta Sports Cup bow on Monday night.
David Scullion bagged the only goal of the game in the first round, first leg clash as Kearney’s embattled players emerged from Tallaght Stadium with a positive result to take into next week’s return tie at the Showgrounds.
Monday’s heroics followed a similar spirited display against derby rivals Ballymena United in the Irish Cup.
Midfielder Scullion was also the hero in that game, scoring a last-minute winner in a thrilling 3-2 victory.
That win came just four days after the Bannsiders crashed to a 5-0 defeat against Cliftonville – a result that raised some question marks over Kearney and his players.
But after a positive week including two stellar victories, Kearney is hoping his squad can continue building momentum in the weeks ahead.
“It was a great performance and result for us against Shamrock Rovers – I think we answered a lot of questions once again,” Kearney said.
“A lot of people had us written off even before we kicked a ball on Monday night, and I suppose that’s understandable given our recent form.
“It is nice for the lads to get such a great result and they deserve the praise.
“After last week’s heavy defeat to Cliftonville we had to take the flak, but against Ballymena and Shamrock Rovers they responded, and this time they get the praise.
“The lads have shown great spirit over the past week, but that has always been there. They have been determined all season, but sometimes you go through rough periods.
“They are a great bunch and they are willing to fight for each other, and they will have to continue to do that for the rest of the season.”