Linfield take to the road for Matchday 24 of the Sports Direct Premiership when travelling to meet Portadown at Shamrock Park  (3pm k.o. all ticket). The teams have met twice this season with Linfield winning 2-1 at home and the away game resulted in a 2-2 draw. 

Under manager Niall Currie Portadown have enjoyed a successful return to the Premiership and sit 4th in the table with some notable home wins over Larne (2-1) and Cliftonville (2-0) along the way. In their last outing they won the Mid Ulster derby defeating Loughgall 1-0. Having consolidated their top flight status, the Ports will now be focusing on pushing forward in pursuit of a slot in the end of season European play offs.

It was an emotionally charged afternoon at Windsor Park for players and supporters alike as The Blues maintained their 12 points lead at the top of the table with a well deserved win over a resilient and organised Carrick Rangers side by 3-0. 

David Healy's men will expect a tough 90 minutes at a ground where points don’t come easy. Thankfully the travelling Linfield faithful will be out in large numbers to back the team. 

COYB!

By Ken Garrett.