Linfield hit the road on Matchday 25 of the Sports Direct Premiership, travelling to the Orchard County to face Loughgall at Lakeview Park (k.o. 3pm). The teams have met twice already this season, Linfield winning 2-0 away in September and 5-1 at Windsor Park in October.

Loughgall manager Dean Smith's decision to largely keep faith with last season's Championship winning squad has produced a dividend as The Villagers sit 7th, just 1 point away from crashing into the top half of the table. In their last league outing they recorded an impressive 3-1 win at Coleraine Showgrounds. 

With the relegation zone now firmly in the rear-view mirror, Loughgall can switch their focus from survival to European qualification!

Linfield were in Irish Cup action last weekend, rallying to win 4-2 despite going 2 goals behind in the 1st half.

As the Premiership title race enters the final third Linfield are well placed, sitting in pole position with a 4 point buffer. The games, though, keep coming and an in-form Loughgall provide the latest challenge to David Healy’s men. 

Hopefully the Blues can keep firmly on track with an away day win to savour.

COYB! 

Ken Garrett.