There were some who questioned whether Northern Ireland's record goal scorer Healy had the attributes to become a successful manager when he succeeded Warren Feeney in October 2015. Was he too quiet? Did he know enough about the Irish League scene? The 37-year-old will feel he has more than answered those questions. Last spring, after six months in charge, Linfield were runners-up in league and cup, now they've gone one better. Healy has had magical moments at this Windsor Park ground in the past - Northern Ireland's winner against England in a World Cup qualifier in 2005 and the brilliant hat-trick against Spain the following year.
Judging by his celebrations, the man who scored 36 goals for his country values this season's achievements just as highly. Coleraine fans travelled in their thousands hoping to see the club celebrate serious silverware for the first time in 14 years. But they were to be bitterly disappointed as Kearney's young side struggled to make a mark on the big day. Six of their starting team were 21 or under and only striker Eoin Bradley had played in a previous Irish Cup final. That inexperience showed and Coleraine were unable to play with the freedom and flair which had seen them go on a great run which earned them a third-place finish in the Premiership and a cherished appearance in the cup final. They were better in the second half, and had some half chances, but could not produce a telling response.