Kelly’s heroes win the Moore Trophy

The Glynn men looked set to make a swift exit from the competition before finding form to defeat Ballymena, Holywood, rivals Carrick in the last four, and Academy in the final.

It’s the perfect confidence boost for the lads ahead of the new league season which is just around the corner.

Kelly told the Times: “After a shaky start and a loss to Randalstown, I thought we would be making an early exit but somehow we got through to a semi-final against Carrick and within a minute I knew we would win.

“The boys began to transfer several hard weeks of pre-season onto the pitch and we carried that performance through to the final.”

He added: “It’s a positive start to the season and I am extremely proud of all the lads and so pleased for the club. This year is a test of our mettle because we are favourites to gain promotion and that tag certainly adds to the pressure.

“Every league game must be played like a Cup final. I will not leave a stone unturned to achieve that goal.”