DAVID Jeffrey has urged his players to continue building momentum as Linfield look to climb the Danske Bank Premiership table.
The Blues got their title defence firmly back on track last week with a commanding 4-2 victory over Portadown.
William Murphy’s headed double helped the champions record three valuable points in what was been a stop-start season.
Jeffrey’s side have suffered two defeats already this term – against Ballymena United and Crusaders respectively – but blasted back to form seven days ago at Shamrock Park.
The schedule shows no signs of let-up for the South Belfast club whose next assignment is the visit of Cliftonville this afternoon.
Tommy Breslin’s Reds were leading the way at the top before crashing to a shock 1-0 defeat to Premiership new-boys Ballinamallard United last Saturday.
“We had Cliftonville watched in that game and by all accounts they were unlucky to be hit with the late goal,” Jeffrey said.
“Second half they played very well but didn’t get the breaks, so we know to expect a tough game.
“Saturday will be a massive challenge, but we want to kick-on and build on last Satruday’s performance against Portadown.
“I thought we played well against Crusaders but didn’t get our reward. The difference against Portadown was we took our chances.
“We will have to be on top of our game against Cliftonville on Saturday as it is always an eventful game against them.
“I remember last season we put in a couple of convincing performances against them. I also remember Cliftonville teaching us a lesson in two games.
“So there is a fine line between success and failure in these games.”
Jeffrey revealed that Matthew Tipton is facing a longer spell on the sidelines.
Tipton suffered a hip injury in the goalless draw against Coleraine last month.
“Matthew has aggravated the hip injury so that has set him back,” Jeffrey said.
“We had hoped he would get a run out with the Reserves soon but he needs more treatment.
“Likewise Philip Lowry is a wee bit off, and Stephen Douglas is getting closer. He has joined in training this week and the back injury seems to be settling.
“As for Peter Thompson he has started some light training but is still a good way away as he recovers from his hamstring injury.
“The injuries have been pretty bad this season. In previous years we haven’t had it too bad with injuries, but this time it has been heavy.”
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