FAI Cup final: Cup win 'needed now' after league collapse - Michael Duffy

Derry City winger Michael Duffy says an FAI Cup final win "is needed now" after the Brandywell club's challenge to win the Premier Division title faltered over the latter stages of the season.

The Candystripes won just two of their last 11 league games to go from title contenders to finishing a hugely disappointing fourth in the table.

Ruaidhri Higgins' side has an opportunity to atone for that somewhat when they face Drogheda in Sunday's decider at the Aviva Stadium, with qualification for European club competition also on the line.

"It was a tough few weeks for everyone involved with the club. You go from being two games away from winning the league to finishing fourth, which is a bit mad," Duffy told BBC Sport NI.

"We move on from that now and weâ€TMre excited for trying to win this trophy. Hopefully we can go and do it.

"To get that trophy back in Derry next week and see everyone enjoy the moment and celebrating together would be special."

Duffy will draw on the experience of being part of three former FAI Cup winning squads, twice with Dundalk and once with Derry, when he takes to the field on Sunday.

Two years ago, the Candystripes ran out 4-0 victors over Shelbourne in the showpiece decider.

"I remember walking out before the game and Derry supporters were everywhere. I couldnâ€TMt believe the turnout and it drove us on on the day big time," he recalled.

"The nerves were settled when we saw the amount of fans there and we were glad to get over the line.

"Anything can happen in a cup final and Drogheda have put it up to us this season in a few games we have played them, so we just go down looking forward to the game."