BOXING DAY DERBY: LINFIELD V GLENTORAN

Linfield’s 2012 squad have booked their place in the semi-finals of the SuperCup NI Minor section after topping Group B with an unbeaten record.

The young Blues began their campaign with a hard-fought 0-0 draw against Glenavon on the opening day. However, the result came at a cost, with Aaron Duffy and Lucas Moore ruled out of the remainder of the tournament through injury.

On Day 2, Linfield bounced back in style with a thrilling 3-2 victory over Scottish side Kilmarnock in Coleraine. After storming into a 3-0 lead, the Blues had to withstand a late fightback, but held their nerve to secure all three points.

Today, Linfield delivered a commanding display against Al Jazira Club from Abu Dhabi, cruising to a 5-0 win that ensured they finished top of their group, going undefeated in the process.

The Blues will now face English side Blackburn Rovers in tomorrow’s semi-final at Bushmills, with kick-off set for 11am. Should they progress, a potential final showdown awaits on Friday at the Coleraine Showgrounds against either Shamrock Rovers or Cliftonville.

All support welcome to the semi-final tomorrow ahead of the first-team’s UEFA Conference League match against FK Zalgiris.