Q Radio Sport
Linfield remain two points behind Danske Bank Premiership leaders Ballymena United following a 2-0 derby victory at Cliftonville on Saturday.
The Blues finished with 10 men after striker Michael O’Connor was sent off within five minutes of coming on as a sub.
Skipper Jamie Mulgrew says it was a hard-earned but deserved victory ...
Happy New Year...@OfficialBlues crashed 3-2 in 2017 after leading 2-0 @cliftonvillefc but no mistake today in final game of 2018 as they secured a derby victory - this time with 10 men. Skipper @mulgrew22 “we’ve learnt from our mistakes...very, very pleasing.” #DanskeBankPrem pic.twitter.com/w3sjrFaLzc
— Q Radio News (@qnewsdesk) December 29, 2018
Reds captain Chris Curran says it could have been a completely different story...
Ballymena beat Newry City 3-1 at Warden Street.
Crusaders snatched a 1-0 win at 10-man Glentoran with a disputed late penalty, converted by David Cushley.
There was further controversy when Glens skipper Marcus Kane was sent off.
The Crues go third above Glenavon who were held to a 3-3 draw by Institute at Mourneview Park for the second time this month.
Basement club Ards thrashed Dungannon Swifts 3-0 at Stangmore Park.
Coleraine were 1-0 winners away to Warrenpoint.
#ColeraineFC can reluctantly confirm that defender Lyndon Kane broke his foot during today’s clash against Warrenpoint Town. We wish you a speedy recovery! #HesOneOfOurOwn pic.twitter.com/QbmusWE71j
— Coleraine FC (@ColeraineFC) December 29, 2018
TRANSFER NEWS: Rod strikes again! @rodmac8 makes 2nd signing as @ColeraineFC boss brings in @ben_doherty16 from @derrycityfc after loan spell @Glenavon_FC Midfielder Ciaron Harkin moves in opposite direction, back to the Brandywell as part of the deal #BannsiderBen #HarkinBack
— Q Radio News (@qnewsdesk) December 30, 2018
The action resumes on New Year's Day with the six fixtures including defending champions Crusaders at home to league leaders Ballymena.
Tuesday January 1st 2019
Ards vs Linfield
Coleraine vs Cliftonville
Crusaders vs Ballymena United
Glenavon vs Warrenpoint Town
Glentoran vs Dungannon Swifts
Newry City vs Institute
.@BallymenaUnited go into New Year top 2 pts clear of @OfficialBlues with @CrusadersFC 3 pts further back. Could 2019 develop into a 3-way title fight? Linfield captain @mulgrew22 says Sky Blues & Crues both pose a serious threat. More on air on the hour & https://t.co/boX2EdCtC7 pic.twitter.com/RS59mvl4sZ
— Q Radio News (@qnewsdesk) December 30, 2018