Cliftonville boss Paddy McLaughlin has played down concerns over Joe Gormley's confidence after the striker didn't play a part in Tuesday's penalty shootout against Linfield.
The Reds beat the Blues 4-3 from the spot following a thrilling Co Antrim Shield quarter-final at Windsor Park.
Ryan Curran, Chris Curran, Aaron Donnelly and Conor McMenamin all found the net from 12 yards, with Thomas Maguire the only player to miss for the visitors.
Gormley - who missed a penalty against Larne on Saturday - was a surprise omission from Cliftonville's opening five takers.
But McLaughlin said the striker was keeping himself for a potential sudden death scenario.
"Joe wanted to save himself for sudden death. He wanted to be a potential match-winner," McLaughlin said of Tuesday's shootout.
"The other boys couldn't wait to step forward. And Joe being Joe, he was happy enough to step out of the spotlight.
"He was going to be the sixth penalty taker, but thankfully we didn't get that far.
"Joe was happy to let the other boys take the first five, he was happy enough to step aside."
McLaughlin said he allowed his players to decide who would take part in the shootout.
"People are expected to score because it is a free shot from 12 yards. But goalkeepers do their homework, and players get nervous," he added.
"Our players stood up and were brave enough to step forward. If they want to take one then I will let them.
"If a manager ever told me I was taking a penalty I would be the first player in the changing rooms!
"I wouldn't want to do it to any of my players. They know how good they are. They practise these things during the week, as well as free-kicks and corners.
"I trust them boys to make the decision. They tell me, not me telling them."
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