David Healy felt the experienced duo in Linfield's engine room were key to Linfield's win over Coleraine.
Jamie Mulgrew and Chris Shields made vital contributions for the Blues in the 2-0 victory to keep Healy's men in with a shout of securing a fifth league title in a row.
Shields netted the opening goal from the penalty spot in the 14th minute after Dean Jarvis was adjudged to have handled in the box, and skipper Mulgrew helped his side see out the game after Eetu Vertainen doubled the lead in the 50th minute.
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"I thought our two experienced players in the middle of the park were key today," said Healy.
"There have been times when we've been good at Windsor and won games and they have played a key role.
"Today proved their worth and experience.
"I thought Daniel Finlayson was very good as well as he was coming up against a lot of attacking players who can hurt you, but Daniel was very good."
The win keeps the Blues seven points behind league leaders Larne ahead of their meeting next Tuesday.
Healy felt his side were worthy of the points and he was delighted to deny the Bannsiders a goal for the third time this season.
"I thought we were good value for the win," he said.
"The penalty opened up the game and then we got the second goal four or five minutes after half time.
"Daniel (Finlayson) should have killed off the game. I try not to let my emotions show when we miss chances because nobody means to miss chances.
"I just thought at that time though when Daniel should have scored basically the game's done then.
"I have that much respect for Oran and his players that when it's 2-0 you always have a worry that they'll get one, the place becomes a little bit edgy and all of a sudden you're on the back foot.
"To keep Coleraine to nil in the three games we've played them this season is a big plus for us.
"Of course it would have been nice to win one or two of the other games, but as I say I've that much respect for Oran and his team to keep them to nil comfortably towards the end was a big plus for us."
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