Crunch game as top two clash

David Jeffrey’s men are ahead on goal difference, with a game in hand, but a win for either team will certainly push them in the right direction.

It really is a huge game for both teams. The Crues have been trying to keep tabs on the Blues for weeks and once Linfield opened the door with some poor performances they cut the gap with some excellent victories

“When you look results in recent weeks you can see Crusaders are the form team,” said Blues boss David Jeffrey.

“They have got a great momentum going and this is their opportunity to put the destiny of the title back in the mix.

“We have a game in hand, but we cannot even think about that until we get this crucial game out of the way.

“Neither team will want to lose, but there is still a long way to go. Every game from here on in until the title is finally decided is as tough as they come. They are all cup finals in a sense.”

In October Linfield produced their best result of the season when they hammered Crusaders 8-1 at Windsor Park. They also beat them 3-1 at home, but more recently lost 2-1 at Seaview.

“The 8-1 win was an amazing night, but that is in the history books now,” added Jeffrey. “Our last trip to Seaview saw us fall 2-1, but I felt we played really well and deserved something out of the game.”

The game is a sell-out and with a packed audience it should add to the excitement.

“It really is going to be a cracker. It is pressure for everyone, but that is nothing new for Linfield because we are under pressure every game to produce a winning performance.

“Our aim is to come away with a vital victory and get our noses in front again.”