We must be at our best says skipper Kris

“Cup competitions are all about on the day,” said Kris. “They may be struggling in the league but history will show Glentoran are always able to put together a winning cup run.

“They have some quality players so we know we have to go there and put in a big performance and hope we also have that little bit of luck too.

“However, while you sometimes need the breaks to go for you, that is no good at all if you don’t perform to the highest level.”

As Kris says, he is now one of the more ‘experienced’ players in the team rather than an older statesman and is enjoying his best spell in the game.

“This is my best season ever. I have played 25 games - the longest run without injury or suspension since I came into the league with Portadown.

“I don’t think the match being called off on Saturday did any team a favour although back to back games against the same opposition are never easy.”

Kris believes the current squad are better than the one that lifted the cup two seasons ago.

“Gary (Hamilton) used that cup win to add even better players to the team and you can see how well that has worked out as we have become more consistent in the league.”

Cup day brings extra pressures on players, but Kris is unfazed.

“I just treat it like any other game,” added Kris. “You go out and try to win. I know younger players feel the pressure.

“Everyone wants a good cup run and hopefully get into the final. Knowing you can be out after 90 minutes and no replays now does add more pressure for some.”