Trip to Cup kings Crusaders is toughest draw for Ards: Michael Ruddy

Ards captain Michael Ruddy helped Crusaders win the Irish Cup in 2019

Michael Ruddy is hoping troubled Ards can stun his former club Crusaders at Seaview on Saturday and crush their hopes of an Irish Cup treble.

The experienced defender helped the Crues lift the glittering prize in 2019 but now his loyalties lie elsewhere.

On Sunday, Ards sacked manager Matthew Tipton after a run of six games without a win, leaving the club 10th in the Playr-Fit Championship.

The north Down side aren’t expected to cause the Cup holders too many problems in the fifth round tie on Saturday but Ruddy is relishing the chance to embarrass old pals.

“I will look forward to seeing some good friends and it’s a place with good memories,” said the left back.

“Hopefully we can cause a major upset. That’s what it would be. They have held this trophy for two seasons and I don’t think we could have asked for a harder draw.

“I did win the competition with Crusaders and played most of that Cup run. They are great memories and perhaps I can have another good Cup run but improving our league position is the priority.

“Saturday is a bit of a free hit for us, we will try to enjoy it and express ourselves. We will need them to have an off day, while we are at our best with a little luck on our side too.

“Stranger results have happened in football. We plan to give them a good game.

“Crusaders have not been as strong at home this season but it’s still a huge challenge for us. We will give it our best shot.”

Ards came into this campaign with ambitions of reaching the Premiership, however a barren run over the last six games — with their only points coming in a Boxing Day draw against Bangor — brought the curtain down on Tipton’s reign.

“It has been a difficult