Glenn Ferguson headed Linfield's second near the end

David Jeffrey's men went into the lead on 42 minutes when Paul McAreavey fired in a free-kick from the edge of the penalty area.

Institute had debutant Seamus Fanthorpe dismissed for two yellow card offences in the 84th minutes.

Then striker Glenn Ferguson headed number two near the end for his 450th career goal and 200th for Linfield.

Linfield deserved the win but took some time to crack a resolute Institute.

McAreavey's breakthrough free left keeper John Connelly rooted to the ground.

Ferguson should have made it two in a one-on-one with Connelly but scuffed his finishing shot wide.

Oran Kearney then had an effort blocked by Fanthorpe.

The clincher eventually came on 90 minutes when Ferguson got on the end of Mark Picking's cross.