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Steven Crawford

County Antrim Shield success can be a catalyst says David Healy

David Healy is hoping for a change of fortune when Linfield take on Larne in the County Antrim Shield final on Tuesday night.

The Blues may be record winners of the famous old competition but Healy has only won one final out of the four he has been in as manager.

That victory came back in 2017 when Linfield defeated Crusaders 3-1 and helped propel them to a league title later that season.

Read next: Joe Thomson backs Larne to emulate Derry City's success story

Healy is hoping something similar can happen this term if they can overcome a Larne side who defeated them in last year's final.

"I think I've lost three County Antrim finals since I've been here," said the Blues boss.

"You never want to lose finals, and sometimes a win can kickstart things.

"It certainly did in my first year, we went on to win the league in what was my first full season. It gives you momentum and belief.

"Obviously we lost to Larne in last season's final, albeit by a small margin, but we will want to win it this year."

There has been little to choose between the sides in recent meetings, and they are one of several teams slugging it out at the top of the league.

Healy is full of praise for Larne and is expecting another tough encounter with Tiernan Lynch's side.

"Larne are flying and all credit to them," he said.

"I know the workrate and everything else Tiernan wants to get out of his side.

"I'm looking forward to Tuesday night and it should be a good game."

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