Linfield are in ToalsBet.Com Co. Antrim Senior Shield action, travelling to Dixon Park, Ballyclare, to face PLAYR-FIT Championship side Ballyclare Comrades (7.45pm k.o.) in Round 1 of the competition. The teams met previously this summer in a 1-1 friendly fixture draw at the same venue.

The Comrades have made a slow start to the season and sit just one place off the basement in the Championship table. Manager Stephen Small will look for a morale boosting performance following a heavy 2-7 home defeat to H&W Welders.

Linfield's juggernaut start to the season hit a speed ramp at Shamrock Park on Friday night when hosts Portadown scored very late in the game, drawing 2-2. This was a disappointing result for The Blues for whom Matthew Fitzpatrick scored a brace.  

Manager David Healy will utilise his squad with some players presented with the opportunity to make their mark.  Hopefully there can be a quick return to winning ways, securing a place in the hat for the next round.

COYB! 

By Ken Garrett.