The former Linfield and Glentoran star struck just 60 seconds from the end to send Tommy Kincaid's side through to the decider at the expense of Dundela at Dixon Park.

He crept in unnoticed by the Duns defence to head a Johnny Roy free-kick home at the back post as the prospect of a dreaded penalty shoot-out loomed large.

Indeed, it was from the spot that Dundela moved in front on 51 minutes after a scoreless first half.

Belfast based official Iain Hall spotted a pull on Thomas Parker and duly awarded a penalty which David Murphy calmly stepped up to convert.

However, their lead was short-lived after Ards levelled within six minutes - again from the spot - after Ryan Hyland handled in the area with Darren Stirling confidently beating 'keeper James Taylor.

And Stirling might have made it 2-1 to Ards before the end of the normal time with a header against the crossbar.

Ards will meet Loughgall in the final on Thursday, 1st May, 2008 at New Grosvenor Stadium, Ballyskeagh.