Paddy McLaughlin believes winning the Toals County Antrim Shield would be deserved reward for his players and the club's fans.
Cliftonville go in search of glory in tonight's Shield decider against Ballymena United at Windsor Park.
Despite losing their last two league games - including Saturday's 1-0 loss to Carrick Rangers - Reds boss McLaughlin has hailed the effort of his players for keeping the club firmly in this season's title hunt.
They may have dropped to fifth in the table after Saturday's defeat but they are just three points off the top spot.
“I’m so pleased for the players to represent the club in a final and have a chance to play for a trophy,” McLaughlin told the club's website.
“I’m also delighted for the fans who have been superb since I came in. They have offered us wonderful support, turned up in their numbers and it would be brilliant to win something for them.
“Obviously I want to win it myself but I want to win it more for the players and supporters for all their hard work all season.
“There is a bond between the players and the fans and that relationship will be important at Windsor Park.
“I’m a believer that success breeds success. Winning the County Antrim Shield would be a confidence boost for the team and the supporters going forward.
“It is a brilliant experience for players when they win a trophy and for this group, I think it would give them a taste and desire to win more. It would also help us for the title run-in and the Irish Cup because success drives good players on.”
The two sides have played each other twice this season in the Premiership - both claiming a win apiece.
But while Cliftonville remain in title contention, David Jeffrey's Sky Blues are struggling in the bottom half of the table.
Despite Ballymena's lacklustre campaign, McLaughlin is under no illusions heading into the Shield decider.
“The players have worked extremely hard and I know they will be ready for the final but we are expecting a very tough match because Ballymena are a good side,” he added.
“It will be a tough game, I believe Ballymena to be a stronger team than their current League position might suggest because they have been plagued with injuries this season.
“Any team managed by David Jeffrey will always give you a game. He’s not the most successful manager in the Irish League for nothing.
"He will be determined to add more silverware to the trophy cabinet but we are busting to win the Shield as well and will be going for it.”
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