Linfield are back on home turf for Matchday 31 of the Sports Direct Premiership, welcoming Ballymena United to Windsor Park (3pm k.o. all-ticket). The teams met earlier this month at the same venue, with Linfield winning the 6th Round Clearer Water Irish Cup tie 2-0. In two previous Sports Direct Premiership fixtures between the teams The Blues recorded wins in both (a 1-0, h 4-0). 

The Sky Blues have endured an extremely challenging season that sees them precariously perched in the relegation zone, a massive 9 points adrift of safety. In their last outing they were edged out 1-0 by Larne at The Showgrounds. Manager Jim Ervin will take his team to Belfast hoping for a result that could be a crucial catalyst in their fight for survival. 

The Blues issued a real statement of intent at Solitude in midweek, scoring 3 unanswered goals against Cliftonville at Solitude. David Healy's men will now look to build up some important momentum ahead of the top-six split in the table. 

With points at an absolute premium, this is a title race that could be decided on the final day of the season.

COYB!

By Ken Garrett.