Assistant Manager Ross Oliver praised his and David’s side’s professionalism and attitude after Linfield booked their place in the next round with a 2-0 victory over Queen’s University on a wet and windy evening.

The Blues made ten changes to the starting XI, handing valuable minutes to a number of players eager to stake their claim — and the head coach was pleased with the way they seized the opportunity.

“It’s always important that the players who haven’t been playing as much get minutes in their legs,” Ross told Linfield TV after the game. “We want to make sure everyone is staying on top of their fitness. Matches like this give us a chance to put out a strong side while also giving those lads the game time they need.”

Despite challenging conditions — with heavy rain lashing Windsor Park throughout the second half — Linfield remained professional to see out the win over the Championship side.

“It was difficult out there at times, a few of the boys were slipping and sliding,” Ross admitted. “But sometimes that can actually suit us — the pitch slicks up a bit and we can move the ball quickly. The boys adapted well and it was a good win.”

Focus turns to Crusaders

Attention now switches back to league action, with Linfield hosting Crusaders under the Windsor Park lights on Friday night.

Ross knows his side will need to be at their best against a team he expects to arrive hungry and full of energy.

“It’s another challenging game for us — there are no easy ones,” he said. “Crusaders have been a bit up and down in terms of results, but they’ll be right up for it when they come here. They’ve got a young, energetic squad, so we’ll have to match them for energy and enthusiasm.”

The Blues will now look to build on their cup progress and carry momentum into a crucial league clash as the fixtures continue to come thick and fast.

Tickets for our match against Crusaders are available HERE