Linfield and Cliftonville contest the 2024 Clearer Water Irish Cup Final at Windsor Park (2.30pm k,o. all ticket). Linfield and Cliftonville have lifted the famous old trophy a total of 44 times and 8 times respectively. 

There will be a great atmosphere within Windsor Park which has quickly sold out with 15,000 supporters expected to attend. There is also live coverage of the game across the BBC NI television, radio and digital platforms. 

David Healy’s Linfield will be determined to add the Irish Cup to the BetMcLean Cup trophy already won this season. Linfield's path to the final has included wins over Warrenpoint Town, Ballymena United, Institute and Glentoran. 

Meanwhile, Cliftonville Manager Jim Magilton has shepherded his side to the final past Coleraine, Loughgall, Portadown and Larne. The Reds Manager could round off his first season in charge at Solitude with a first Irish Cup win for the club since 1979. 

This is certainly a difficult game for pundits and neutrals to call. The teams are so evenly matched, both filled with potential match winners in their ranks. 

A highly entertaining and at times feisty afternoon of football lies ahead.

COYB! 

By Ken Garrett.