Oran Kearney hopes the 10th anniversary of Coleraine’s last Irish Cup win can act as inspiration to his players.
It was back in May 2003 that Jody Tolan scored the goal to seal cup glory with a 1-0 win over Glentoran.
Kearney – who lifted the blue riband trophy as a player with Linfield – is hoping Coleraine can go on an extended run this season.
“It is 10 years since the club last won the cup, so we are due some success,” he said ahead of today’s fidth round tie with Ballynahinch United.
“We are capable of beating anyone, and we can put in a big performance.
“The draw has maybe killed us in recent years. You can find yourself in a semi-final without really playing anyone of note.
“We have tended to get the likes of Linfield, Crusaders, Glentoran. So ideally, we are starting off with a home tie against a side not in your league, so hopegully we can kick-on on Saturday and get a kind draw.”
Kearney admits the cup is a “big opportunity” for silverware success.
“For a club where we are at it is a big opportunity for us and one we want to make the most of,” he added.
“I would argue that we can beat anyone in the Premiership on our day, so the Irish Cup is a big chance of silverware.
“We had our scare last year with Larne Tech Old Boys. We were 2-0 down with about six minutes to go and managed to claw it back and win it 3-2.
“So the players know they have to be on tip-top shape. There can be no room for complacency against Ballynahinch on Saturday – none at all.”
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