Linfield are on the road for match day 12 of the Sports Direct Premiership, when travelling to meet Carrick Rangers FC at the Loughshore Hotel Arena (7.45pm ko, all-ticket). The teams have already met this season at Windsor Park, sharing the points after a
3-3 draw.
Carrick Rangers have battled back from the nadir of an early season nine-goal demolition at Crusaders, to steadily climb up into eighth-place in the table. Rangers are a team in form with back-to-back wins over Glentoran (2-1) and Loughgall (4-3) in their most recent league outings. Success in cup competition has also seen progress made in both the League Cup and on Tuesday night a 3-1 CAS win against Dundela has sealed a semi final date with Glentoran. A player to watch is talisman striker Daniel Purkis, who has already hit eight goals in all competitions. The signing of the ex-Glentoran man on a three-year deal, looks to be an astute bit of business on the part of manager Stuart King.
Linfield tightened their grip at the top of the Premiership table, with a well-deserved win (2-0) over derby rivals Glentoran, at a packed and vibrant Windsor Park. The Blues were good value for the win, dictating play in the middle of the park to restrict the visitors to only sporadic attacks. A dominant display that was personified by MotM Chris Shields, who weighed in with both Linfield goals. Post match, the self-effacing Dubliner was both amused and bemused when informed that he was now Linfield's top goal scorer! A great night for the Blues with a performance and result that has underlined their title aspirations !
David will be preparing for another tough game at the compact, exposed stadium at Taylor's Avenue. The Carrick players will be crossing the line on Friday night bolstered by three wins on the bounce at the stadium. Hopefully, the Blues can keep their own winning run going and take all three points back to Belfast! COYB!
Ken Garrett.
Online Match Tickets for this game are on sale now from the official Carrick Rangers FC website in partnership with Future Ticketing, by following the link below.
Adult tickets are £13 and concession tickets are £9.
https://www.carrickrangers.co.uk/tickets.aspx
