Celtic captain Stephen McManus knows that cup finals against the Huns are relatively rare events and he also knows that it is on this stage that legends are born. Unless Bobo Balde makes a comeback to rival Lazarus then it's a pretty safe bet that not one of the players on duty in the Hoops will have experienced anything quite like Sunday's game but the Bhoys skipper and boyhood fan knows the history.
"It's the first cup final of the season and we're delighted to be a part of it." said 'Mick', "Cup finals are always big occasions and we're looking forward to it. It's a great occasion for us. We aren't going to be footballers forever, so you want to make the most of these chances. It's a big moment for all of us. Our time is now."
1989 Cup final
Where history is made...
"This will be the first derby final we will have played in for Celtic." he continued. "As a kid, this is the type of final that you remember. I always look back to the 1989 Scottish Cup final when Celtic played Rangers. That was a great day. It's important to try to win the game. It's a one-off match and it has no bearing on the league title. We'll just be going out to win it. The hunger, passion and desire of the boys is not in question."
"We're up for it and Rangers will be the same." he added "We know that they are a good side, but let's see how it goes on the day. It has to be decided on the day. Both teams will be looking to score as many goals and try to win the game. We're all excited about it. I hope it's a good occasion. It would be great if it was fast, flowing and going from end to end. But nobody knows how it will pan out."
Just like their club captain the Celtic family worldwide will also be hoping for a fast, flowing, exciting game with a Celtic victory at the end of it. But somehow, on this occasion, I don't think we'll see the 'good football v winning ugly' debate after this game. Win as ugly as you like Bhoys, just win! Hail! Hail!