Irish Cup: Curran and Gormley out to end long wait for cup win

Curran has been a bit-part player for the Reds but produced a strong substitute appearance against Larne in the semi-final victory.

Rory Hale and Ronan Doherty are nailed on starters for Jim Magilton, but since the departure of Chris Gallagher to Larne, the manager has used a number of players in that third midfield role.

Curran, Shea Gordon, Conor Pepper and Kris Lowe will all be vying for that position, but the captain is happy to play whatever role required as long as Cliftonville clinch silverware.

“I’d love to start but I’m more interested in us winning the cup, I hope I do, but if I don’t, I’m ready just to play my part there’s a bigger picture at play.

“We just want to play the game and not get carried away with the occasion.”

The midfielder is excited for the away end to be drenched in red at Windsor Park, where a huge attendance is expected.

“It never ceases to amaze me when you come out of the tunnel at Windsor Park and you look at the away stand and it is a sea of red, it is special to see and hear it so I’m excited for that.”

Ever the optimist, Gormley is ready for the party in north Belfast after the final if the Reds finally manage get over the line.

“I’ve put in my pass for three to four days leave if we win so I’m just waiting to get my permission slip signed!”

Something tells me he’ll need a few weeks never mind days to celebrate if Cliftonville manage to end the 45-year wait for Irish Cup glory.