UE Ir t ste 4 sens Subscription Top Soccer ; £1.50 Magazine Smirnoff Premier Irish League LinfieldLinfield Football Club (FOUNDED MARCH 1886) een rr RE Qaemnes [= ee infield Football Club, formed in Marci millworkers in the Sandy Row area successful club in Ireland. The Belfast Blues have a playing record unsurpassed in Irish soccer and their Windsor Park stadium is the home of the Northern Ireland international team. 1886, by a group of of Belfast, are the largest, most League Championship ~ 42 times 1890/91 1891/92 1892/93 1894/95 1897/98 1901/02 1903/04 1906/07 1907/08 1908/09 1910/11 1913/14 1921/22 1922/23 1920/30 1931/32 1933/34. 1934/35 1948/49 1949/50 1953/54 1954/55 1955/56 1958/59 1960/61 1961/62 1965/66 1968/69 1970/71 1974/75 1977/78 1978/79 1979/80 1981/82 1982/83. 1983/84 1984/85 1985/86 1986/87 1988/89 1992/93 1993/94 Irish F.A. Challenge Cup ~ 35 times 1890/91 1891/92 1892/93 1894/95 1897/98 1898/99 1901/02 1903/04 1911/12 1912/13. 1914/15. 1915/16 1918/19 1921/22 1922/23 1929/30 1931/32 1933/34 1935/36 1938/39 1941/42 1944/45 1945/46 1947/48 1949/50 1952/53 1959/60 1961/62 1962/63 1969/70 1977/78 1979/80 1981/82 1993/94 1994/95 League Cup (City Cup): 26 times winners, Gold Cup: 31 times winners. Ulster Cup: 15 times winners. Co, Antrim Shield: 37 times winners. All-Ireland Cup: 3 times winners, idweiser Cup: Once. Coca-Cola Cup: Once. European Record Played © Won Drew —_—_Lost For Against 6 10 16 37 68 135 © Linfield have competed in the European Cup over 18 seasons, in the European Cup Winners’ Cup over three, the European Fairs Cup over two ‘and the UEFA Cup in four. In 1966/67 Linfield reached the quarter-finals of the European Cup, losing by the odd goal to CSKA Sofia of Bulgaria 2 LINFIELD FOOTBALL CLUB Officers 1998-99 President: William Weir Chairman Wiliam McCoubrey Vice-Chairman: Peter Lunn Hon. Treasurer: David Crawford Asst. Hon. Treasurer ‘Tommy MeClure Secretary: Derek Brooks Asst. Hon. Secretary: Ian Foster, MBE Club Doctor: Cameron Ramsey Team Manager: David Jeffrey Physiotherapist Terry Hayes Commercial Manager: Brian Thompson Groundsman: Gary Thompson Management Committee: Trustees: John Adgey vim Glendinning Richard Johnson Peter Lunn Cameron Ramsey William Weir Elected Members: William Braden David Crawford Ivan Foster, M.B.E. William Kennedy ‘Charlie Knox Dessie Moore ‘Thomas McClure William McCoubrey Paul Weir Official Programme Eaitor: Billy Kennedy Eaitorial Convenor: Ivan Foster Advertsing Brian Thompson Publisher: Linfield Football Club Printer: Edenderry Print Ltd,, Agnes Street ind. Est,, Crumlin Road, Beltast BT13 1GB, Tel: (01232) 740192NUICE” of Linfield *° The Smirnoff Premier League Championship is now at a vital stage with four games to go and only three points separating leaders Glentoran from Linfield. In this situation, the outcome is outside the hands of Linfield, but it is imperative that we win our four remaining games against Coleraine (today), Glenavon (next Tuesday), Cliftonville (on April 17) and Crusaders (on April 24). This would enable us to take the leadership in the final run-in should Glentoran falter in at least one of their four remaining games. The loss of nine points midway through the campaign in away games against Newry Town, Coleraine and Ballymena United cost us the League leadership, and these results may have a vital bearing on the outcome of the title. It is a real fight to the finish and our players must ensure that Glentoran are pushed right to the wire for this trophy. We look forward to a Bass Irish Cup semi-final tie against Cliftonville at Windsor Park on Saturday April 10 and must get closer to the winning of this other major trophy. * We extend a warm welcome to the players, officials and supporters of Coleraine Football Club, making their second visit to Windsor Park this season. (_ ) Glentoran (|) Newry Town (| ) Omagh Town ( ) Portadown Coleraine are never an easy team to defeat and they invariably lift their game when playing Linfield. In the three previous Smirnoff Premier League games between the teams this season, the results were a 2- 1 win for Linfield, a scoreless draw and a 2- 1 win for Coleraine. In the Nationwide Gold Cup, Linfield won 2-1. League points are vital for Linfield today and nothing less than a win is expected by supporters. * The Irish Football Association's Senior Clubs Committee has in our view wrongly decided not to permit concessionary admission to the Bass Irish Cup se! 1 ties involving Linfield-Cliftonville at Windsor Park and Portadown-Ballymena United at the Oval on Saturday April 10. Admission prices will be £8.00 to the grandstand. The decision is made all the more bizarre with the proposal to have concessionary prices for youths and old-age pensioners at the Final on May 1. The Linfield/Cliftonville Bass Irish Cup and Coca Cola Cup semi-final ties are both all ticket with the tickets available in the Linfield Sports Shop. The Coca Cola Cup game is scheduled for Tuesday, April 13. Cliftonville (_ ) Crusaders (_ ) Glenavon(_ ) Ballymena United (_ ) a raei Nee POR Kick Off For P Full 24 hour mobile service P Ever and night of the year for windscreen repair, replacemer rear window and side glass replacement From P 800 fully equipped mobile units DP 150 fitting centres By 900 filly trained and skilled installers With D Service accredited to BS EN ISO 9002 DP Approved by all motor insurers D 26 years experience of automotive glazing P Working on over 700,000 vehicles every Nes/ Acco le MP Windscreens’ wr CALL FREE ANY TIME 0800 919 700Ie D 0" season is still in full low with a tight run-in in the i League Championship and two Cup semi-final ties awaiting us against Cliftonville over the coming weeks. We achieved an important Premier League result against Newry Town, but we should have converted more of the chances that came our way. These would certainly have considerably improved our goal difference over Glentoran, but we made amends in the game against Omagh Town when five were knocked in The three-point gap with Glentoran leaves the destiny of the title outside our control, but if we win our remaining four games there is always the chance that Glentoran could lose a game or two, It is going to be a very interesting couple of weeks for the fans with some nail-biting moments anticipated On Tuesday night, the lads showed strength, grit and real character in coming away with a Coca Cola Cup quarter-final success over Glenavon at Lurgan. It was a very closely contested encounter and happily we just about edged it in the extra-time period. We face Glenavon again in a Premier League game on Tuesday and | am sure they will again stretch us to the limit. Today, we must concentrate on getting another three points to sustain our League challenge and against Coleraine nothing can ever be taken for granted Chris Morgan and Jamie Marks are still unavailable through injury, while Ryan Semple is a major doubt after picking up an achilles injury on Tuesday night. lan McCoosh is expected to resume today for the Swifts, who are now only a few points away from clinching the Irish League ‘8’ Division, Section Two title 5iwfield ferdunes 1998/99 Date Opponent Competition Result 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 ie aa 13 14 July 22 iy 22 Omnia (a) EUFAC 1-5 Geddes MoDonald Easton © McCoosh =» Murphy Beatty Marks ~—»«Gorman_—‘Ferguson(1) Feeney Bailie Larmour-10 McShane-4 Collie-2 3 Geddes McDonal aston Semple urphy Beat our Gorman(2) Ferguson Feeney(t) Bailie Coler umpbel larks- 23 Omonia fh) EUFAC 53 Geddes MoDonald(t) Easton Sempl Murphy Beatty La Gorman(2) Fe Feeney(1) Bailie Collie-2 Campbell1) Marks-4 wo. 4 Neary Town fa) SPL 1-2 Geddes MoDonald McShane Semple ©» Murphy —Beatty(1)_Larmour Gorman Ferguson Campbell Ballie Collier-3 — Marks-4_» McCoosh-10 Pa alana nied (h) SPL 1-0 Geddes MoDonald Easton © McCoosh =» Murphy Beatty Larmour(t) Gorman Ferguson Marks Bali Cleland-4 © Semple-10Campbell-DNP ‘i 29 Gusaers fa) SPL 41 Geddes McDonald(1) Easton McCoosh Murphy Beatty Larmour(1) Gorman(1) Ferguson(1) Marks Balle Coller-ONPSemple-6 Feeney-4 Sept. lenavon fh) SPL 20 Geddes MoDonald Easton Young Murphy Beatty(1) Larmour Gorman Ferguson(1) Marks Bailie Cleland-4Semple-DNP Chisholm-DNP A Coleraine fh) SPL. 24 Geddes McDonald Easton ‘Young Murphy Beatty Larmour(1) Gorman Ferguson Marks Bailie Collier-2Cleland-7__—-Semple-DNP Limavady United (a) Nec 1-0 Henry McDonald Easton Young Murphy Beatty Larmor Gorman(1) Ferguson Marks Balle Feeney-2_ CampbelDNP Cleland-DNP 12 Omagh Town (@) SPL 31 Geddes McDonald Easton --Young(1) Murphy Beatty Larmour(1) Gorman Ferguson(t) Marks Bailie Cleland-DNP Feeney-3 Campbell-DNP 13 Gitonle eee 1-0 Geddes McDonald Easton Young Murphy Beatty(1) Larmor Gorman Ferguson Marks Balle Campbell-7 Feeney-10 _Cleland-DNP Newry Town (n) NGC 30 Henry MeDonald.-—« McShane Young Murphy Beatty Larmour2) Gorman(1) Ferguson Feeney Bailie Campbell-6 Marks-DNP__Collier-DNP i 26 Portadown (@) SPL 20 Geddes McDonald McShane Young Murphy Beatty Lamour Gorman(1) Ferguson Feeney(1) Bailie Semple-4_—Campbell-DNP. Marks-DNP ct. «3 Glentoran (h) SPL 11 Henry McDonald MeShane Young Murphy Beatty Larmour(t) Gorman Ferguson ‘Feeney Balle Campbel-DNP Marks-DNP Semple-DNP 6 Ballymena United (@) SPL 0-4 Henry McDonald ~=«-McShane Young, Murphy Beatty Larmour Gorman Ferguson Feeney Bailie Campbell-7 Semple-10 Cleland-3 13 Glenavon (h) Nec 0-4 Henry McDonald. Semple. Young Murphy Beatty Lamour Gorman Ferguson Feeney Bailie Campbell-9 Marks-3_- MeShane-DNP 17 Newry Town {h) SPL 22 Robinson McDonald McShane Young Murphy Beatty Larmour Gorman Marks Feeney Bailie Coller-DNP Morgan-6 Semple-2 24 Crusaders (n) SPL 24 Robinson McDonald McShane Young Murphy Beatty Larmour Cleland Marks Morgan Balle Feeney-9(1) McCoosh-4(1) Collier-DNP 27 Crusaders (a) NGC 42 Simpson McDonald McShane McCoosh McLaughlin Beatty(1) Larmour(1) Cleland Feeney(2) Morgan. Bailie Marks-10_ Semple-8Colie-2 31 Glenavon (a) SPL 11 Robinson. Colier McShane McCoosh Murphy Beatty!) Larmour Gorman Feeney McLaughlin Bailie Young-DNP Cleland-DNP McDonald-DNP Nov. 7 Omagh Town (b) SPL 2-0. Robinson -Colier Semple McCoosh Murphy Beatty Larmour(1) Gorman Feeney(t) Morgan Bailie Chisholm-3 Marks-10 Campbel-DNP 10 Dungannon Swifts (a) NGC 34 Inglis / »Colier Chisholm McCoosh McLaughlin Beatty Larmour(1) Gorman(t) Marks Morgan(1) Bailie Campbell-3 Shaw-2 Young-4 14 Coleraine eee 00 Inglis“ Colier Murphy McCoosh McLaughiin Beatty armour Gorman Marks Feeney Bailie Young-4 — Campbell9 Morgan-DNP 21 Cliftonville fa) SPL 11 Inglis. Coller Murphy(1) McCoosh McLaughlin Beatty Larmour Gorman Marks Feeney Bailie Campbell-9 Morgan-7_Young-DNP 24 Coleraine (a) NGC(QF) 2-1 Inglis” Collier McShane McCoosh(t) McLaughlin Beatty Larmour Gorman Marks Feeney Bailie Morgan-10(1) Campbell-2 Young-4 28 Portadown (b) SPL 22, /“Angls Campbell McShane McCoosh McLaughlin Beatty Larmour(1) Gorman Marks Feeney(1) Baile Morgan-2 “Murphy-3- Young-DNP Dec. 1 Ballyclare Comrades a NGC (Q/Fy 5-0 Inglis McDonald © McShane McCoosh Young Beatty Morgan(3) Gorman(1) Ferguson Feeney Bailie Larmour-9(1) Shaw-2 ‘Semple-8. 5 Glentoran (a) SPL 40° / Inglis “McDonald Morgan McCoosh Young ~—Beatty(1)Larmour Gorman Ferguson Feeney Bailie Campbell-10 Semple-4 Shaw:DNP 8 Portadown NGC (SMF) 03 “Ingls McDonald Murphy McCoosh Young Beatty Larmour Gorman Ferguson Morgan Balle Feeney-7_Semple-6 _-MoLaughin-NP 12 Ballymena United (hy) SPL. 4-1 Inglis. McDonald © McShane McCoosh McLaughlin Beatty — Morgan(1) Gorman — Ferguson(2) Feeney Bailie Larmour-9(1) Semple-7 Murphy-2 19 Portadown (a) SPL 1-1. Inglis ““~Murphy McShane -McCoosh | ‘MeLaughin(t) Beatty Larmour Gorman Young Morgan Bali Chisholm-10 Feeney-4.~ Semple-DNP 22 Lame (a Coas 50/~ Robinson McDonald McShane Murphy(1) | McLaughlin Beatty Larmour(t) Gorman Chisholm(3) Semple Bailie Cleland-7_ McCoosh-8 _Campbell-10 26 Glentoran (bh) ~ SPL 41 “Anglis McDonald McShane Murphy «McLaughlin Beatty armour Gorman Ferguson(t) Morgan Bailie. McCoosh-DNP Semple-ONP” Chishoim-DNP dan. 1 Newry Town (a) SPL 42. Inglis. McDonald McShane Murpty | McLaughlin Beatty armour Gorman Ferguson Morgan(1) Baile Cleland-3 McGoosh-5 Chisholm-7 2 Omagh Town Mois 3-0 ings Collier McShane Murphy(1) McLaughlin Beatty(1) Larmour Gorman Ferguson Semple Balle Chisholm-10(1)MeGoost-5~-Cleland-ONP 9 Coleraine (a) SPL 42+ “Ingis McDonald McShane Murphy. McLaughlin Beatty Morgan Gorman Ferguson Chisholm1) Balle Larmour-7\ MeGoosh-5 Campbell-2 42 Glentoran (n) “CGAS (SFY 1-2 “Robinson McDonald McShane MoCoosh McLaughlin Cleland Morgan(t) Gorman Ferguson Campbell Bailie Larmour-7.-Matks40.__Murphy-DNP 16 Glenavon (n) SPL 3-1 Inglis McDonald McShane MeCoosh(t) McLaughin(1)Beatty Morgan(1) Gorman Ferguson Chisholm Balle Campbel-7 ~ LarmourONP~ Young-DNP 23 Crumlin United (n) BICRdS 6-0 _—_Inglis_-MDonald +=» McShane Cleland(t)---MoLaughlin Beatty Morgan(t) Gorman(t) Ferguson(3) Chisholm Balle Campbell Larmour-7....” Shaw-2 26 Ballymena United (@) cee 32 Robinson. Shaw Collier Cleland McLaughlin Young — Morgan(t) Gorman Ferguson(1) Campbell Balle Murphy-5» Larmour-6(1) ~Marks-4 30 Giitonvile ee 1-0 Inglis McDonald Young(1) Cleland Murphy Beatty Morgan Gorman ‘Ferguson Campbell Balle Chishoim-10- Larmour-ONP-Marks-DNP Fed. 6 Crusaders h) SPL 4-2 Inglis McDonald Young Gleland-—»- Murphy Beatty Morgan(2)Gorman(1) Ferguson(1) Campbell Bale Larmour-10~ Matks-2 McShane-4 13. Ballymena United (a) SPL 2-4 Inglis. McDonald McShane Young Murphy Beatty Morgan’ Gorman(1) Ferguson(1) Larmour Bailie Marks-7Chisholm-2~Cleland-DNP 20 Chimney Corner (hn) BIC RAS 341 Inglis McDonald += McShane Young Murphy Beatty Morgan Gorman(1) Ferguson Marks Bailie Cleland-4—_Larmour-9(1)_ Semple-DNP 27 Portadown (n) SPL 34 Inglis. McDonald McShane Young McLaughlin Beatty Morgan Gorman(2), Ferguson Cleland Bailie Larmour-7_Marks-2Philson-4 March 6 Glentoran (a) SPL 21 Inglis McDonald McShane Young, McLaughlin Beatty Morgan(1) Gorman” Larmour Marks Bailie Chisholm-10(1)Philson-12 _Gleland-DNP- 13 Glenavon () BICRA7 0-0 Inglis. McDonald ~—Collier--—-Young McLaughlin Beatty Larmour Gorman Ferguson Chisholm Balle Cleland-6(1) Semple-10 _Philson-DNP 16 — Glenavon (a) BICRd.7(A) 21 Inglis. MeDonald Collier Young McLaughlin Beatty Larmour(2) Gorman Ferguson Philson Balle Chisholm-8 Cleland-DNP Semple-DNP 20 Newry Town (n) SPL 2-1 Inglis MoDonald-—Coller-—Chisholm =» MoLaughlin Beatty Larmour’ Gorman Ferguson(2)Philson Semple-4/Young-ONPCleland-DNP 23 Omagh Town (@) SPL 5-1 Inglis McDonald Collier Chisholm ~—-«MeLaughin Beaty Larmour(2) Gorman(1) Ferguson(1) Phlson(t) Balle Young: Semple. Cleland-6. 30 Gienavon (@) Coc 24 Robinson MeDonald(1) Collier Semple --‘MeLaughiin Beatty Larmour(1) Gorman Ferguson Philson Bailie Chisholm-4 Shaw-DNP —_Cleland-DNP April 3 Speaine " Ee lenavon a : toe cae fy BIC(SrF) jons: EUFAC (UEFA Cup), SPL (Smirnoff Premier League), 13 Gitonaie el nay oa Gold Cup), CCAS (Calor Co. Antrim Shield), CCC liftonville oca Cola Cup), Bl i 24 Grusaders fa) SPL ‘ ESI Bass Cup) May 1 Bass Irish Cup Final 6 7official kit suppliersSpiers. 3, Stephen Beatty gets his cross in Pictures: Colin McMaster, Belfast.ast October the Irish Football Association took everyone connected with the local game by surprise with its launching of the document titled “A Way Forward”. In its introduction to the document the Association stated that its belief was that the time had arrived to reorganise and re-structure the Upper levels of Irish League football and that the urgent requirement, a new Premier League, would be set-up and wholly administered by the Association. The whole thrust of the plan was to provide an entirely new cultural environment in which Northern Ireland's foremost football clubs could improve their quality and image, maximise the commercial value of the game and this ensure football's long-term future and property, both domestically and internationally. The document then went on to state why in the Association's opinion there was the need for change e.g. too many senior clubs, too many matches, few training facilities, run-down stadia, dwindling crowds and a lack of quality players. Under the proposals two senior clubs would be invited to join the IFA Premier League and season commitments would be as follows:- + 22 League Matches * Bass Irish Cup + A new League Cup competition * One divisional association competition A system of promotion and relegation would continue to operate between the IFA Premier League and the Irish Football League First Division. On receipt of the document the Linfield Management Committee considered the proposals in depth devoting a whole evening to discuss the matter. The Committee considered that the proposed fixture schedule was unacceptable in that it considered that 22 League matches were an insufficient number, realising the importance of the competition, and agreed that the present structure of 10 teams, playing each other four times, was the most suitable solution Indeed, the Premier League chairman agreed with the Club's views and indicated accordingly to the Irish Football Association. Despite this decision of the clubs, the Association rejects it and states that the number of clubs must be 12. Following that meeting the Premier League Club chairmen went back to their clubs to re-consider this issue and were to notify the chairman of the Premier League chairmen of their Club's views on this issue by the end of March. Last Monday night, the Linfield Management Committee again, considered the proposed League and decided by 14 votes to nil (club treasurer David Crawford was absent as he was in Moldova as a member of the IFA International Committee) that its preferred choice was a league of 10 teams, playing each other four times and for the following reasons:- 1. The present system meets current needs and each season the League Championship is a close-fought affair amongst the top Clubs. ‘A 12-club League will weaken its strength as more players of a Premier status will have to be recruited A 12-olub League will have serious consequences for the clubs remaining in the Irish Football League First Division. Twelve clubs playing each other three times each season makes for an unequal championship. . Twelve clubs playing each other twice gives two few matches in the most important of the domestic competitions. . Twelve clubs playing each other twice and then splitting into two halves, one set playing for the Championship and the other for the relegation positions, is not ideal We await the decisions of the remaining nine Clubs on their views for the way forward. Finally, we welcome the debate on the need to go forward into the new Millenium with a new structure not only at a senior level but right down through youth to the grassroots. Linfield Football Club, as the Premier Club in Ireland will not shirk its responsibilities to the local game and at the same time will do its utmost to remain “The Club” in Northern Ireland, AUDACES FORTUNA JUVAT 10Played Won = Drawn Lost For —_— = 1 UEFA Cup 0 1 6 ‘Smirnoff Premier League 32 19 8 5 61 32 Nationwide Gold Cup it 5 0 2 13 8 Calor Co. Antrim Shield 3 2 0 1 1 2 Bass Irish Cup 4 3 1 0 oi 2 Coca Cola Cup 2 2 0 0 5 3 Total: 50 32 9 9 107 55 Appearances Goals Noel’ Baille 9.i0 yectercen ss deen Ss acmen ess 50 = Tony Gorman . 48 14 Stephen Beatty e 48 8 David Larmour .48 (10 as sub.) oe Tommy McDonald . . 40 3 Glenn Ferguson . oo 16 William Murphy . .35 (3 as sub.) 4 lan Young .29 (4 as sub.) 2 Pat McShane . -29 (2 as sub.) ao Jamie Marks .27 (10 as sub) = Neil Inglis . . ae 6 - Chris Morgan . .26 (4 as sub.) 16 Ryan McLaughlin . fase oe 2 Lee Feeney .. .25 (7 as sub.) 7 lan McCoosh . . . .24 (6 as sub.) 3 Robert Campbell . .20 (14 as sub.) + Ryan Semple ... .20 (13 as sub.) = Stephen Collier . 18 (5 as sub.) ea Tom Cleland . .17 (9 as sub.) 1 Gary Chisholm 17 (9 as sub.) 6 Bobby Geddes - John Easton . . Robert Robinson Graeme Philson . David Henry Johnny Shaw . Jonathan Simpson .. . . Ownigoali 2 .siencSeven-trophy team honoured ix members of the Linfield seven- trophy winning team of 1961-62 have received Linfield life member tickets in recognition of their remarkable achievements. The prized tickets were presented at a Linfield supporters’ fund raising dinner at Windsor Park on Friday night March 26, with Club chairman __ Billy McCoubrey leading the tributes to the players who carried off the “Magnificent Seven”. Joining former Blues’ captain Tommy Dickson and goalkeeper Alex Russell, who are already the holders of Linfield life member tickets, were John Parke, Billy Wilson, Tommy Stewart, Isaac Andrews, Ken Gilliland and Hubert Barr, who recently moved back from England with his wife to live in Larne. Responding to the gesture on behalf of his colleagues, Portadown man Billy Wilson, who played half-back in the 1961-62 team, said: “This ticket means. so much to all of us. We have our medals from that very memorable year and | can assure you this is also something very special for us.” John Parke, a Linfield season ticket holder and a regular at games, also expressed delight at being granting life membership. So did right-back Ken Gilliland, who said: “I have 40 senior medals from my Linfield career - 12. by Club including four Irish Cup winners from seven final appearances - and this ticket will really add to my collection. It's marvellous.” Sadly, two members of the seven- trophy team are dead - centre-half Sammy Hatton and winger Billy Ferguson, while coach Isaac McDowell and trainer Jimmy McCune have also passed on. Five other leading players from that era unable to attend Friday night's function were Ray Gough, Jackie Graham, Jim Reid, Bobby Irvine and Bobby Braithwaite. Their life members’ tickets are being sent on to them. Linfield chairman Billy McCounbrey explained: “The Linfield Management Committee decided to grant all of the seven-trophy players life member tickets. What they achieved will never be repeated again in Irish League football.” Current Linfield manager David Jeffrey and 26 members of his playing squad and coaching staff joined 150 supporters at Friday night's dinner. The Linfield Special _ Efforts Committee, which organised the dinner, handed over a £4,000 cheque to Linfield chairman Billy McCoubrey, bringing to £10,000 the amount raised for the parent club this season The special speaker at the dinner was Seven trophy heroes: eight of the Linfield seven-trophy team of 1961-62, pictured at a dinner in the Linfield Social Club on Friday, March 26. (Front row, L. to R.) — Hubert Barr, Alex Russell, John Parke, Tommy Dickson. (Back row, L. to R.) — Billy Wilson, Ken Gilliland, Isaac Andrews, Tommy Stewart. Picture: Colin McMaster. broadcaster Paul Atcheson, with entertainment being provided by comedian Terence McKeag. An excellent meal was provided by Cresta Catering. Officers of the Committee are: Special Efforts chairman - David 13: Crawford; vice-chairman - Brian Hamilton; secretary - Robert Hamilton; treasurer - Paul Weir. The committee expresses thanks to the various Linfield supporters’ clubs and companies and individuals for providing sponsorship for the event.ie A) ay Re Doing more to help you reach your goals «® Ulster Bank More than just a bankri by Mark Fe" players make the impact at Linfield in such a short space of time that William Murphy did last season after his move from Ards. He came to Windsor Park as a promising left-back and has been moulded into a top quality centre-half. Blues’ boss David Jeffrey played at Ards after his long career with the Blues ended as a player and he marked Murphy as one for the future. When Jeffrey decided on a policy of only signing players with the desire to play for the club, William was one of the first people he went to. “When David came to me about coming to the Blues, to be honest there was never any real decision for me to make,” says William. “Of course, it was a little daunting coming to a club the size of Linfield but it was a move | had to make. | would never have forgiven myself if | hadn't made the move.” William was a certain unknown quantity when he arrived at ‘The Shrine’, but his performances in the first couple of months left the Linfield fans open-mouthed. A natural left-back, he was asked to do a job in the centre of defence, and by his own admission it went like a dream. “L knew the transition into a centre-back would be extremely difficult, but for things EB Mcintosh William XM Murphy to change that much into a short space of time was a dream. The whole team were on a high trying to catch Cliftonville for the title and | think confidence just bred confidence. | had a few wise heads around me and they have moulded me into the player | am now.” As things were getting better and better for the side, William began to get a bit of interest from clubs across the water. He was also being talked about as “Player of the Year” or even “Young Player of the Year”. So, when things are going that well, there is always going to be something to go wrong. Many thought when Cliftonville pipped the Blues to the title that was it for Murphy, but what has happened this season has been a nightmare, if last season was a dream. Things were going fine early in the season until he was asked to play 15*PISyUry Joy Jopucyop peMyeys ve — Aydinyy WPI 17 16at left-back, his original position, but without the success he experienced at Ards. A few bad games led to a period out of the side and in came Ryan McLaughlin who made the No. 5 shirt his own. “| have no complaints about how Ryan has played since he came into the side. It would be suicide to change a winning side when you are on a roll,” he adds. When William eventually did get back into the side disaster struck again. It was a day of mixed fortunes during Linfield’s historic return to Solitude in November. William was the unexpected hero of the Blues faithful as he shot the Linfield into the lead, the Blues playing at the north Belfast ground for the first time in 28 years. So, all was well until - BANG! A confrontation with Mickey Donnelly and he was leaving the play a little earlier than expected. “There was nothing in the incident with Donnelly but to be sent-off was a major disappointment. After that things just went wrong for me,” he sighs. “Ithas been a nightmare because the lads are really doing well and as anyone can imagine | want to be involved.” The Blues are of course catching the title, three points behind cross-town rivals Glentoran with only four games left including today. At this stage of the season there is never an easy game because all players want to beat a side doing well. “No game is going to be easy now because everyone will be wanting to do the business against us but | just wish | could have a say in it.” The Blues also have two Cup semi-finals games coming up against Cliftonville and William is dying to get into the fray. “Every player wants to play in the big games, I’m no different. | will keep plugging away in the Swifts and at training and with any luck | will get my chance to show what | can do,” he says. As for the run-in to the championship, William believes the Blues still have a Tealistic chance of lifting the Gibson Cup. “| think we still have a chance but, of Course, it is all in Glentoran’s hands. If they win every game they are champions. But we'll be going out to do the same and are confident of doing so. If they slip up we will be knocking on the door.” It should be a great finale. Played Won Drawn Lost For Against —_Points Glentoran 32 24 5 6 61 30 68 Linfield 32 4g 8 oe; 32 65 Crusaders 32 17 8 7 45, 29 59 Newry Town 32 14 9 9 46 43. 51 Glenavon 32 1 10 "1 42 33 43 Ballymena United 32 1 8 13 30 36 4 Cliftonville 32 u 13 12 29 39 34 Coleraine 32 9 6 7 29 51 33 Portadown 32 6 10 16 32 43 28 Omagh Town 32 4 5 23 22 66 17Linfield supporters’ club donations... Linfield Special Efforts Committee... dumna Street Linfield Supporters’ Social ‘Club First Ballyclare Linfield Supporters’ Club Linfield Supporters’ Association .. 1st Newtownabbey Linfield Supporters’ Club... First Belfast Linfield Ladies Supporters’ Club £1,000.00 Springdale Linfield Supporters’ Club - seree+1£300.00 £200.00 dumna Street Linfield Supporters’ Club ... Roden Linfield Supporters’ Club . “£200.00 Finaghy Linfield Supporters Club 150.00 TOTAL . £21,450.00 SUPPORTERS OF LINFIELD FOOTBALL & ATHLETIC CLUB ) AND PREMIER GOLD MEMBERS From Royal & SunAlliance © Call ‘Travel Insurance Medical Insurance ‘A donation for each policy obtained will be made to Linfield Find out how much you can SAVE 19LINFIELD SPORTS SHOP 235 Donegall Avenue * Belfast BT12 6LW Telephone: Belfast 329044 Fax: Belfast 244691 ToT (Closed Wednesday and Sunday) CO ee mcd NOW IN STOCK _LINFIELD CAR MATS £15. — . : —— RedwcotafiBst A HOME AND il Wp i Were £32.00 =| NOW £20. 00 Hote AND AWAY. SHORT: : lere £15. -00 ‘ Se Now £8.00, All ier ranges of La Coa Sport Clothing AT LEAST 20 PER CENT OFF Snooker Cues - Clearance Sale .C. Back Packs were £15.00 .C. Duffle Bags were £10.00 eld F.C. Holdalls were £10.00. Linfield F.C. Pen Sets were £7.50 ALSO T-SHIRTS AND SWEATSHIRTS - £10.00 TO CLEAR Manchester United replica footballs to clear! NOW £5.00Five candidates are seeking nomination to the Linfield Management Committee at the Club's annual general meeting in the Windsor Park Viewing Lounge on Friday night May 7. The retiring Board members seeking re-election are William Kennedy, William Braden and Charlie Knox. Also seeking election are Jackie Grundy and Jim Kerr. The full range of Le Coq Sportif goods in the Linfield Sports Shop is now available at reduced prices. Supporters should move now while stocks last. The Linfield European Supporters’ Club has elected as its president Linfield Management Committee member Ivan Foster MBE. Glenn Ferguson scored Linfield’s 100th goal of the season in the Premier League game with Newry Town on March 20. The century of goals came in 48 games. ‘We would remind subscribers to the Easter ballot that the draw will be made today, so be sure to check your tickets to see if you are a winner. The results will be given out later today, and also shown in the next “Look at Linfield”. ‘A poker night has been arranged for Saturday, April 17, commencing at 7.30 p.m. in the Executive Lounge, in the Viewing Lounge area, Being Saturday, it gives an opportunity for a number of our players to participate, so although you may never come against them in football, here's a chance to see them off at the cards. Don't forget the golf day organised for Tuesday, May 11 at Holywood Golf Club. Tee-off times are between 9.30 a.m. and 1.30 p.m. and we can accommodate you at your particular preference time, or as near as possible. There will be a meal and evening entertainment for the all- in fee of £30 and you can also, if desired, only partake in the golf or the evening meal, obviously at reduced rates. This event is always a very enjoyable part of a player's testimonial, and we would be pleased if all interested golfers would join us. For entry details contact Noel Bailie, Dessie Moore or Jim Aston. Other events are lined up for the coming months, and will keep you informed in the few remaining programmes of this season, and throughout the next season. We thank you for your splendid support for the weekly draw collection, taken up at a recent home game, when a substantial amount was raised, and we look forward to you Continuing that support, as the year progresses. atPARKWAY PHOTOGRAPHY 80a Holywood Road Telephone: 659808 JET TAXIS Fast, Efficient Service 12, DONEGALL ROAD, BELFAST @ 323278 YOEL ae 1) i NRE 50 SANDY ROW el The Best Convenience Store Tel: 310348 da TS) em ir Ui Pr Pee Cee) SPX ier) Fax: (01232) 687330 Wishing Lined F.C. every from Peter Doman a PeTeR DorNAN & Co. Solicitors Metropole House, 2-10 York Street, Belfast BT15 1AQ Teley (01232) 234559 Fax: (01232) 236217 Also sub-office: 85-87 Main Street, Bangor Telephone: (01247) 273054 Mon., Wed. and Fri. afternoons 2-5 p.m. Antrim Pine Manufacturers of Quality Pine Furniture Kilroot Park * Carrickfergus Direct Inquiries Welcome Tel: 01960 355474 for 1998/99 ff SUPER SHINE CAR VALET Specialist Car Cleaners 306a, Donegall Avenue, Donegall Road, Belfast ] BT12 6Gs | Contact | Telephone: (01232) 243787 Mobile: (0585) 112870 Beside Windsor Park Victor ENTERPRISES 13 Queen Street, Lurgan, Co. Armagh BT66 8BQ Telephone: (01762) 324070 Fax: (01762) 326578EUR OD J A Which team are nicknamed “The Saddlers”? Spice Girl “Mel G” is a fan of which club? Which Italian team were the first winners of the European Cup Winners’ Cup? In which Swiss city do Servette play their home matches? ‘True or False - the Cup winners have won the FA Charity Shield more times than the League winners? Which Premiership club has a fanzine called “One Nil Down, Two One Up"? Which English club were once known as Ardwick? In which year did Brian Clough become manager of Nottingham Forest? Which player has scored the record number of goals for England? 10. Which teams were the first to be relegated from the Premiership in England? WEE BLUES MASCOT Today young Daryl Maxwell, from the Cregagh Road, leads out his favourite team. Daryl, aged eight, and father Gary, are always present whenever Linfield play home and away. Daryl, whose favourite Linfield Player is Chris Morgan, has been a season ticket holder since the age of five and is a pupil at Harding Memorial Primary School. He names his favourite ‘non-Linfield player as Liverpool's Michael Owen. oeene ear Mascot Jamie Marchant, pictured with Noel Bailie prior to the Linfield v. Glenavon Irish Cup fixture. 488104 WeYyBuNnjon pue YyGnosogsa\pplyy “aoeied leis (1) ‘uoweyg Aqgog (6) 'sz61 (8) ‘Au Jaysayouey (2) ‘jeuasiy (9) ‘ased (¢) ‘enauag (p) ‘eunuaso1y (¢) ‘jooduanr (2) esiem (1) -!S4aMSU ZIND 23Flashback . . . April 13, 1982 Linfield 2, Coleraine 1 (Irish League) An Easter Tuesday showdown at a sun- drenched Windsor Park between two sides chasing a League and Cup ‘double’ was the backdrop to this encounter, and despite being top of the table, Linfield knew that nothing less than a win was required to keep on course for the championship. With two games remaining Linfield were on 33 points from 20 games, two ahead of both Glentoran and Coleraine. However, with both their rivals having a better goal difference and with Coleraine having a match in hand, a nail-biting afternoon looked likely for the home support. Both clubs had entered the game in top form, the Blues having defeated Distillery 7-0 at Ballyskeagh three days earlier and ‘the Bannsiders having put four past Larne. In a game high on tension, Coleraine did little to live up to their reputation, being on the defensive for much of the afternoon, with Billy Murray in particular giving them a torrid afternoon, although the visitors’ back-line held on superbly for the first-half. Linfield finally got the break-through on 62 minutes that their pressure had deserved John Garrett overlapped superbly ‘on the right-flank, outpacing McManus before putting over a superb cross for Martin McGaughey to score with an excellent header. Within a minute however, the Linfield title celebrations had seemingly turned flat as Coleraine grabbed a shock equaliser. Gerry O'Kane pushed the ball through to Felix Healy, who was until this point having an unusually quiet afternoon, and his low cross was bundled over the line by the ever reliable Des Dickson. A inal scoreline of 1-1 may well have dealt the Blues’ title hopes a near-fatal blow but they produced a massive effort in the closing quarter of the game to clinch the two points. The deciding goal arrived somewhat fortuitously with 11 minutes remaining, as Coleraine substitute Phil McCandless turned Terry Hayes’s centre against the upright, leaving Stephen McKee with the simple task of tapping in the rebound. Coleraine’s discipline duly collapsed as quickly as their title aspirations and their fustrations boiled over, leading to five of their players being booked before the game ended. With Glentoran losing 1-0 at Ballymena, the Blues were left with the relatively simple task of going to Bangor the following Saturday requiring only a point to clinch their 34th league title. In the end, they made sure in style with a 5-0 win and seven days later came from behind with two goals in the closing ten minutes to defeat Coleraine 2-1 in the Irish Cup Final and complete their third League and Cup ‘double’ in five seasons. April 16, 1994 Coleraine 2, Linfield 2 (Irish League) Going into the final fortnight of the title race, and the Blues were hot in pursuit of Portadown and Glenavon. Portadown led the table with 66 points and three games left, Glenavon three behind and Linfield on 26 62 points but with a game in hand and a crunch encounter at Shamrock Park looming seven days in the future. Losing ground was not an option on this sunny afternoon in the North-West, but this was a nervy performance which indicated that the pressure was finally beginning to tell. Linfield went into the game with a superb record against Coleraine, not having lost at the Showgrounds since 1987 and an upset seemed a million miles away when Philip Knell flicked the ball nonchalantly on for Garry Haylock who raced past Gaston to open the scoring after 20 minutes. Despite dominating the first-half, the Blues received nasty awakening with literally the last kick of the first 45 minutes when Carlyle found the net with a rocket of a shot from 25 yards. If that wasn't bad enough, four minutes into the second-half Coleraine took the lead, when the Linfield defence made a mess of a cross ball leaving Derek Cook with an easy header from close range. Despite Dessie Gorman's inclusion as a substitute, Linfield rarely looked like scoring and they were staring defeat in the face for the first time in five months until they finally got the break-through with 10 minutes remaining. Haylock found himself clean through in the box and was brought down from behind by Stuart McLean when bringing his foot back to shoot. With the large travelling support barely able to watch, Haylock himself took the penalty and beat the goalkeeper for his 37th goal of the season. The drama wasn't over, however, and Coleraine almost snatched it right at the death with only an amazing double-block by both John Easton and Wes Lamont saving the point for Linfield. News filtered through that Glenavon and Portadown had both been held to draws in games they were expected to win comfortably - Ballymena United's Barry McCreadie scrambling an equaliser against the Ports in the final minute - and having seemingly being ready to wave goodbye to their hopes of retaining the Gibson Cup only 10 minutes earlier, the Blues were right back in the hunt again after a heart-stopping afternoon. GARY GALBRAITH infield honorary treasurer David Crawford was in Moldova this week for the European Championship game as a member of the international committee of the Irish Football Association. David recently was awarded a life membership of the County Antrim Football Association for serving 17 years as the representative from Linfield Football Club. Terry Hayes, the club pysiotherapist, was also in Moldova as the Northern Ireland pysiotherapist. Linfield supporters are reminded that the Smirnoff Irish League game with Glenavon at Mourneview Park on Easter Tuesday (April 6) kicks off at 3 p.m. 27Qa CeO es NEEDS YOU EARN EXTRA CASH ENJOY A SUMMER OR WINTER HOLIDAY BUY SOMETHING FOR THE HOME ENJOY EXTRA CASH AT CHRISTMAS BUY A PRESENT FOR SOMEONE SPECIAL OR JUST GO ON A SPENDING SPREE TO ENJOY ALL THESE BENEFITS, JUST RECRUIT FAMILY, FRIENDS, NEIGHBOURS OR WORKMATES AS PREMIER GOLD MEMBERS AND BECOME A PREMIER GOLD AGENT TODAY. JOIN NOW BY CALLING 01232 434440Premier Gold Congratulations to Paul Millar of our sponsors Auto Windscreens. Paul, one of the guys at the Ballymena depot, scooped the Premier Gold jackpot of £750. Paul of Ballyhenry Road, Glengormley, was over the moon as he had been only a Premier Gold member for six weeks. Paul, along with Rory Parker and Michael Moore, pays directly to commercial manager Brian Thompson, who collects from agents in the mid-Antrim area. Chairman Billy McCoubrey won the loyalty prize and has requested a video. No doubt the video will come in handy to replay footage of the Blues’ goals over the season! In week 28, the jackpot has gone to Pauline McComb of the Cabin, North Queen Street. Pauline's husband recently won £100, so Pauline goes on to better that with the jackpot. Linfield striker Glenn Ferguson was a £100 winner. Well done, Glenn, who is obviously on form on the pitch and in Premier Gold. Richard Johnson, of the Linfield Management Committee, was a £100 winner. New agent Hubert Shaw of Clough, Co. Antrim, had a £100 winner with George Bamford, Eddie Davis, of Antrim, had a £100 winner with S. Lyle and £100 also went to Gregory Forsythe, of Ballymena. Premier Gold winners for week 27 were: Jackpot - P. Millar (A7624); Loyalty draw - B, MoCoubrey (B7283); £100 ~ E, Hall (A7109), R. Kerr (02083), A. McQuitty (89278), M Magee (C1450), S. Turner (C1806). Fifteen consolation prizes of £10 were also won. The draw was completed by Rory McKenna, Larne. Premier Gold winners for week 28 were: Jackpot - P. McComb (B9848); Loyalty draw - W. McGrath (3394); £100 ~ S. Kyle (A9247), G. Forsythe (B8481), G. Bamford (C8820), G Ferguson (C2688), R. Johnson (87182). Fifteen consolation prizes of £10 were also won, The draw was completed by Stanley Davis, Lisburn Gordon wins on Premier Gold Life-long Linfield supporter Gordon Jamieson recently won two separate £100 winning umbers. Postman Gordon, from Dromore, Co. Down, is a well-known figure at Windsor Park. If you can't spot six-foot Gordon in the crowd then look out for the Banbridge banner as Gordon won't be far away. Gordon was recently presented with his second £100 cheque at Windsor Park at the Linfeld-Glenavon Bass Irish Cup quarter-final game. On hand to present the cheque was Gordon's agent Rodney Biggerstaff of Dromore, Co. Down, Gordon, a Blueman, received his cheque from Gordon, a Glenavon supporter! However, due acknowledgement and a sincere thanks to Rodney Biggerstatt, who has been an excellent Premier Gold agent with over 60 members,° Linfield Swifts are only four points away from winning the Irish League ‘B’ Division. At present, Pewistsy they have 64 points from 24 games played, 21 points ahead of Glenavon Reserves who have played 23 games and 24 ahead of Cliftonville Olympic who have played 21 games. The Swifts defeated Ballymena United Reserves 3-1 at Ballymena Showgrounds on March 20 with goals Craig Hirthe, Colin Magill and David Munster. Today, the Swifts, with six games remaining, travel to Coleraine to play Coleraine Reserves. On Thursday night they played Limavady United Reserves at Limavady. 3 Linfield Rangers are through to the final of the IFA a Youth Cup, meeting Cliftonville Strollers at Seaview next Thursday April 8. In the semi-finals they defeated Enniskillen Town Youths 5-4 in penalties after the game at Mourneview Park, Lurgan on Monday March 22 went into extra time scoreless. The game was of a very high standard and both teams are to be congratulated on their performance. Rangers team was: Manus, Strain, Hunter, Caldwell, Murray, McGuickan, Shaw, McDonald, McCord, Jackson, McCann. Subs - Stewart, Graham, Dunlop. Donal McCann was unfortunate to receive an injury and he had to leave the field. As he did so the referee brandished the Ted card in what was a very harsh decision. Linfield Youths had two convincing wins in the lés Lisburn and District Youth League (Under-16) over ‘@ recent weeks. They defeated Springfield Star on March 20 with goals from Aaron McKeown 2, Thomas McAllister 2 and Nathan McConnell In an 11-0 win over Lisburn AFC last Saturday, Nathan McConnell scored six goals, with other scores coming from Neil Corr, Gavin Thompson, Lee Ashe, Gary Kelly and Alan Martin. Linfield H122,'s an excelent opportunity for you to and returned. The garage is situated on the Hollow Linfield away from Windsor Park by _Belfast/Newry Roard, just past Hillsborough, Supporting one of our most dedicated players in and as you pass the A.1 Garage, and Bridge his new business venture. lan McCoosh has i cullion pened falcaifeares(conpartysandiwolsiiie Commercials on the left, you will see Listy be Road on your right hand side, and find lan in TES ee ee ee | restence [Na 17!Givllan a call on (01846) wil provide tyres, exhaust systems, batteries, 689650 or on his mobile 07771 610232. Have a and all other parts, and will cater for, M.O.T. chat, fix an appointment, and know that you are Preparation, general servicing, Valeting, indeed doing one of our most popular and talented all of your car needs. players a good turn, and having a good job done Jan will also arrange to have ‘your car collected, to your car at the same time. 30.VIDEO. ciTy € Free Membership Video Releases and Games Stocked in Depth Per ADVERT ALONG AN! a ey Bd = GAME FOR is (oboe PrN i Pui lesiicade GET ON THE WINNING TEAM 801, LISBURN ROAD, 376, ANTRIM ROAD, BELFAST 9. GLENGORMLEY (opposite Malone Park) (next door to KFC) - YOUR LOCALLY OWNED VIDEO STORE - NEWS LETTER » — Full Match Report and Analysis — if it’s happening . . . it’s in the NEWS LETTER(from) (from) * Neil Inglis a & Tommy McDonald ‘2 Wesley Lamont ‘at McShane * Stuart Clanachan *» Graeme Philson “ Michael Smyth & Noel Bailie ” William Murphy © Bre ‘yJohn Gregg am a qeenme © Shane McQuillan en , in Ferguson Isaac English Pat McAllister & Gavin Naylor Trevor McLernon Paul Stokes Referee: John Ferry (Londonderry) Assistant Referees: Gary Anderson (Newtownards) and Charlie Pollock (Carrickfergus)