A Mark Miskimmin strike early in the second half was enough to book Linfield's place in the final of the Paddy Power County Antrim Shield.

After a fine run, defender Jim Ervin set up Miskimmin who came charging through to fire a low left-foot shot past Cliftonville keeper John Connolly.

The Reds went closest in the first half when Liam Boyce ran through and shot against an upright.

Linfield will meet Premiership leaders Crusaders in the final.

Ryan Catney tries to get a challenge in on Linfield's Philip Lowry

Cliftonville, who had won 4-0 when the sides last met, had an early chance but Stuart Addis saved the volley from Chris Scannell.

At the other end, Billy Joe Burns made a run down the right and crossed for Philip Lowry whose shot was saved by Connolly.

After the goal, Miskimmin sent a volley just wide and Lowry had a brilliant effort tipped away by Connolly.

The final is scheduled for Tuesday, 1 December.

E-mail this to a friend

Printable version