Linfield travel to East Belfast for the first post-split fixture, taking on derby rivals Glentoran at The Oval (3pm k.o. all-ticket). The sides last met in the BetMcLean Cup Final at Windsor Park where Linfield emerged 1-0 winners.
Linfield come into this ‘Big Two’ clash on the back of a disappointing 0-2 defeat at Carrick Rangers. With a place in the European play off final already secured, The Blues will be determined to bounce back and finish as high as possible in the Sports Direct Premiership table.
As the title race enters its final stretch, Glentoran sit in 2nd place, 4 points behind leaders Larne. In their last outing, Declan Devine’s side missed the chance to close the gap, drawing 1-1 with Coleraine at The Oval. The Glentoran manager will demand a strong finish as they chase a first league title since 2009.
A high-octane encounter is expected, with a tense atmosphere guaranteed inside an at capacity Oval. At this stage of the season it’s all about results and a potentially season-defining 3 points are on the line for both sides.
COYB!
By Ken Garrett
