Linfield boss David Healy insists complacency will not be an issue in in tonight’s BetMcLean League Cup first round tie with Moyola Park.
Following a hectic start to the season, that included a gruelling European schedule, the Irish League champions came back down to earth with a shattering defeat by Carrick Rangers.
However, they stabilised with successive wins against Ballymena and Crusaders – in the County Antrim Shield – which has them in the best possible shape for the test at Mill Meadow in Castledawson.
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Healy admits he is spoilt for choice with Chris Johns and David Walsh battling it out for the No.1 shirt, the latter producing a wonderful performance last time out against Stephen Baxter’s Crues.
“Walshie was very good,” said Healy. “Any time we have had to call on him last season or the year before, he is more than reliable.
"We think a lot of Walshie. Chris has been a big player for us, the way he has conducted himself over the past few years, but Walshie will play games. He’ll get enough games to keep him ticking over.”
Meanwhile, Crusaders boss Stephen Baxter expects a testing 90 minutes when he takes his team across town to face Dundela at Wilgar Park.
“We know all about their capabilities,” he said. "They are a well managed and well drilled side.”
First round (all 7.45pm): Ballyclare Comrades v Ballinamallard United, Bangor v Annagh United, Carrick Rangers v Banbridge Town, Coleraine v Dergview, Dundela v Crusaders, Dungannon Swifts v Queen’s University, Glenavon v Dollingstown, H&W Welders v Cliftonville, Larne v Lisburn Distillery, Limavady United v Newry City, Loughgall v Knockbreda, Moyola Park v Linfield, Portadown v Armagh City, Warrenpoint Town v Newington, Glentoran v Institute.
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