Linfield will enjoy home advantage on matchday 14 of the Sports Direct Premiership, when welcoming Loughgall FC to Windsor Park (3pm ko, all-ticket). Last month the teams met at Lakeview Park, with Linfield winning (2-0) courtesy of a two goal salvo from Jack Scott.
Loughgall have adapted well to life back in the top flight, sitting seventh in the table, ten points clear of the relegation zone and just two points behind the top six. Their best result of the season so far, was undoubtedly the home win (1-0) over league champions Larne. In their last outing they put Newry City to the sword at Lakeview Park (3-1). Manager Dean Smith has largely kept faith with the squad of players which gained promotion up from the Championship. Player to watch is young striker Benji Magee, who hit all three goals in the recent win over Newry.
Linfield tightened their grip on pole postion after defeating Cliftonville (1-0), in Friday night's absorbing top of the table clash at a packed Solitude. The Blues managed the game well, keeping their shape and discipline when coming under some sustained bouts of pressure. The game was decided by substitute Chris McKee, who latched onto a loose header in the box to delightfully lob the ball home. A thoroughly professional performance from the Blues who recorded their sixth straight league win, with the added bonus of another clean sheet. Importantly, this was also their fifth win of the season against another top six team. With just over a third of the league campaign already in the rear view mirror, the Blues find themselves in a strong position, leading the chasing pack with the security of a seven point buffer. However, experience will tell you that no league title was ever won or lost in October!
David will be wary of the threat posed by a Loughgall side that has forced draws at both Seaview and Solitude. Linfield though are in great form, having built up some real momentum over the last month or so. A home win must be the aim for the Blues on Saturday. COYB!
Ken Garrett.
