Linfield’s European odyssey continues as they welcome Shelbourne to Windsor Park (7.45pm k.o., all-ticket) in the UEFA Conference League Play-Off Round, 2nd leg. Shelbourne won (3-1) in the 1st leg tie at Tolka Park, and the teams met previously in this season’s Champions League 1st Qualifying Round with the Dublin side going through 2-1 on aggregate.
Shelbourne head to Windsor focused on preserving their two goal advantage after last week’s incident laden clash at Tolka Park that saw 4 goals, 3 penalties, and a first half red card for the unfortunate Matthew Fitzpatrick which changed the whole momentum of the game.
The Blues for their part must strive to score the first goal of the night. After 3 games in opposition both managers will be only too well aware of the challenges and individual battles that will need to be won all over the park.
The stakes really could not be much higher for both clubs as they sit on the cusp of the financial windfall that qualification for the Group Stages of the competition brings. The air of palpable tension around Windsor Park will hopefully act as a catalyst to spur on both the Linfield players and supporters alike in this winner-takes-all game.
COYB!
By Ken Garrett.