Linfield are in Clearer Water Irish Cup action this weekend, travelling to Londonderry to face PLAYR-FIT Championship side Institute at The Ryan McBride Brandywell Stadium in a quarter-final tie. (1pm k.o., all-ticket). In the last round Linfield and Institute enjoyed home wins over Ballymena United (2-0) and Ards (1-0) respectively. 

Institute are well placed in the Championship title race, sitting 4th in the table, 4 points behind leaders Dundela. In their last outing, 'Stute kept their promotion bid on track with a 2-0 home win over Newington FC. 

During the January transfer window Manager Kevin Deery made an astute signing, bringing in former Northern Ireland international defender Daniel Lafferty. The experienced defender counts Burnley, Oldham Athletic, Sheffield United and Shamrock Rovers among his previous clubs.

Last weekend saw Linfield continue their winning form with a 2-0 Sports Direct Premiership victory over stubborn Ballymena United at Windsor Park. Many positives can be taken from the game, not least of which was another clean sheet.

This fixture is one of four which sees 'David v Goliath' ties to decide the semi-final line up, and it’s Premiership v  Championship in each game. The Blues dare not underestimate this Institute side who will be fired up for their biggest game of the season. 

Another large contingent of Linfield supporters will make the long journey to the North West, and David Healy and his team will appreciate their backing. 

COYB!

By Ken Garrett.