David Jeffrey heaped praise on his Ballymena United players after they produced a superb display to see off Larne and secure their place in the Irish Cup final for the second year in a row.
Second half goals from the unlikely duo of Craig Farquhar and Dougie Wilson helped the Sky Blues shoot down their east Antrim neighbours.
It was nothing more than Jeffrey's men deserved and the boss sang the praises of his players after the game.
Read more: Coleraine FC issue statement following Jamie Glackin appeal outcome
"We've had Sean O'Neill wrapped in all sorts just to get him here tonight," he said.
"After Jordan Williamson was sent off at Larne we were faced with having to play young Marcus Thompson, who was at school this morning.
"The back three of Douglas Wilson, Scott Whiteside and Craig Farquhar were immense.
"What a find by Bryan McLoughlin Robbie McVarnock has been, and Ross belied his age by any shadow of a doubt.
"Steven McCullough, Josh Kelly and Sean Graham worked their absolute socks off, and Jordan Gibson and David McDaid were first class.
"They all played their part, they were very disciplined, they worked extremely hard, but they had to as Larne are such a talented team.
"We got there on merit though and it was most pleasing."
Jeffrey, who will now manage a team in a 12th Irish Cup final, insists Ballymena will not get carried away with the result as his thoughts turned to a club stalwart, who sadly passed away earlier this season, for extra motivation for his team.
He said: "You're always trying to prepare what you're going to say before the game and at half time and the one thing I said to the players that if they needed a little bit extra, to run again or jump a little bit higher, then think about the late, great Don Stirling. A man who was Mr Ballymena United.
"We're not getting carried away but in saying that we've done something that not many people thought we could do.
"The belief in the changing room was tremendous, they got a bit of good fortune, applied themselves brilliantly and thoroughly deserved their victory.
"I just can't praise them enough, the players have been phenomenal.
"We never throw anyone under the bus, we always back the players, they have stuck together and deserve all the credit and praise."
Video kindly supplied by Irish FA
READ NEXT:
- Jason Smyth announces his retirement after glittering career
- Ex-Glentoran teen voices pride after signing first pro deal with Southampton
- Masters dream set to become a reality for Malone Golf Club member
- James McClean announces he has been diagnosed with autism
Sign up to our free sports newsletter to get the latest headlines to your inbox.
