Linfield manager David Jeffrey relishing playing Crusaders in Irish Cup

IT could be the match that makes or breaks Linfield’s season.

They currently lie third in the league and after the first two trophies of the season, the Blues have no silverware to show for their efforts.

And it is no wonder Linfield manager David Jeffrey is looking forward to playing Crusaders at Windsor Park.

The Shore Road men beat the Blues 1-0 in the semi-final of the IRN-BRU League Cup.

So a win on Saturday would be sweet revenge for Linfield and for ‘Big’ Davey.

He says the game is a “ginormous” challenge but one both he and his team are looking forward to.

Not least of all because Matty Tipton is on fire at the moment scoring goals for fun.

The fifth round tie is a repeat of the last two finals in the competition, both won by the Blues.

“It will be extremely tough – Crusaders are ahead of us in the league, they are playing very well and they are a big, strong, physical team,” said Jeffrey.

Linfield v Crusaders is one of three all Irish Premier League ties which will add a bit of spice to the matches and give lowly teams the chance to reach the sixth round.

Today’s fixtures in full (kick offs 3pm):

Linfield v Crusaders

Cliftonville v Ballinamallard

Portadown v Dungannon Swifts

Ballynahinch v Coleraine

Loughgall v Donegal Celtic

Killymoon v Glentoran

Tobermore United v Kilmore Rec

Immaculata v Ards

Rathfriland v Stute

Knockbreda v Rosario

Larne v Lurgan Celtic

Glenavon v Harland & Wolff Welders

Ballyclare v Bangor

Dundela v Queen’s

Ballymena v Warrenpoint

Lisburn Distillery v Coagh United