Rangers fell behind early, when Ryan Curran put Cliftonville in front in the 3rd minute, and despite much effort in the first-half, the 'Gers struggled to get create any clear cut chances to force Reds keeper PJ Morrison into action. Carrick goalkeeper Scott Pengelly was called into action towards the end of the half, making an important save from a Jonny Addis shot, with the back three of Billy Joe Burns, Jimmy Callacher and Luke McCullough defending well as Cliftonville pushed for a second.
Following a change at the break which saw Matthew Snoddy replaced by Adam Lecky, the game changed and Carrick began to find their feet, Mikey Place and Ben Buchanan Rolleston getting forward to cross numerous times, with Paul Heatley forcing Morrison into action on several occasions. As time ticked on, the Amber Army may have started to believe it was not their night, however following a goalmouth scramble that saw Lecky's shot cleared, Aidan Steele crossed the cleared ball to an unmarked Lecky at the back post to fired his shot through the legs of Morrison to level the scores.
Both sides had chances to win the game in the final moments, however the tie ended 1-1 and was settled with a penalty shoot-out.
Shooting in front of the Carrick supporters, the Reds were first and were quickly behind as Ryan Curran blazed over before Jimmy Callacher cooly slotted home. Jonny Addis and Luke McCullough were next, both scoring before Rory Hale and Danny Gibson did the same. Liam McStravick then stepped up for the Reds but his spot kick was saved by the diving Scott Pengelly, leaving Aidan Steele with the chance to seal the win and he did just that, sending Morrison the wrong way to win the shoot-out 4-2.
Afterwards, Stephen Baxter was delighted to win the Shield, and paid tribute to the 1,000 fans who supported the 'Gers on Tuesday, as well as everyone associated with the Club, both here and afar. The win etches Carrick's name on the famous trophy for just the second time.
The triumph completes a memorable few days for the Amber Army, following a league victory over Cliftonville at the weekend. Carrick now return to Taylors Avenue on Saturday 24 January at 15:00 GMT, to host Dungannon Swifts.
