LINFIELD manager David Jeffrey has saluted his boys after their hard-fought County Antrim Shield semi final win at Seaview.
The Blues claimed a narrow 1-0 victory over Crusaders to set up a November 27 final with Ballymena United.
Michael Carvill’s early strike was enough to settle the issue, but Crusaders goalkeeper Sean O’Neill will certainly want to avoid television replays.
The big shot stopper managed to punch the little midfielder corner kick into his own net – a real Hallowe’en howler.
Jeffrey admitted his team enjoyed a slice of luck on that occasion, but he was disappointed they didn’t put away a number of other glaring opportunities.
“I don’t think anyone would say we didn’t deserve to win the game,” he said.
“It was a tough uncompromising tie from two committed teams.
“Yes, there was a touch of fortune about the winner. But I’ve seen play some great stuff this season and score some tremendous goals and gain nothing on occasions.
“You always need a little bit of luck – and we got it tonight. The players did fantastically well – I’m very proud of them.
“We had to freshen things up because we had seven players out injured or suspended.
“We really should have scored a lot more. Although the keeper (O’Neill) was at fault for the goal, he then produced a string of brilliant saves.
“It’s great to be in another final.”
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