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Steven Crawford

Paul Heatley discusses his future after helping Crusaders secure another major honour

Paul Heatley says the expectation levels at Crusaders are what drives the club on to success.

Heatley, who has been a star feature on the Shore Road for over a decade, netted the fourth goal in Sunday's Irish Cup win over Ballymena United.

It secured a third winners medal in the competition for the 35-year-old to go with the three league titles he has won.

Read next: Another record-breaking season in the NI Football League as attendances rise again

Heatley believes the players constantly having to prove themselves is key for the club, and he is determined to keep on doing the business for what he calls "a close-knit family" for as long as he is wanted.

"I will keep going as long as the team wants me and as long as I'm physically able to," he said.

"Every player is very lucky to play for the club because it's such a close-knit family.

"There are such high expectations year in, year out. It doesn't matter who you are or what you've achieved in the past, you're constantly having to prove yourself.

"Regardless of how long you're established in this team you can't take anything for granted.

"Next season we turn our attention to Europe to get off to a really good start."

Heatley has seen a lot during the past ten years at Seaview but he rates this season's Irish Cup win as one of the best.

"Today is up there," he said after Sunday's game.

"Last year was just so cagey for us. It was a nervy performance, really below par for what we expect and what the gaffer expects of us.

"We had certain things to put right today regardless, and I think that certainly showed from minute one.

"We were dominant, I don't think Jonny Tuffey really had a save to make over the 90 minutes.

"The goals came at the perfect time, but we came in at half-time a bit disappointed because we had quite a few good chances to make it 2 or 3-0 at the break and kill the game.

"It's a dangerous score line 1-0. The second half though is probably the best second half I've seen us play.

"It was so dominant, so controlled and the goals just seemed to fly in...it was a really good performance."

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