Holders Linfield safely through in Co Antrim Shield

Linfield started their Co Antrim Shield defence with a win at Dixon Park. Credit: Pacemaker

Linfield began their defence of the Co Antrim Shield with a 4-1 win over Ballyclare Comrades at Dixon Park on Tuesday night.

Two early goals, Stephen Lowry on four minutes and a neat Kirk Millar lob on eight minutes had Linfield in command.

However, Comrades battled their way back and Mark Kelly pulled a goal back just five minutes before the break.

Ballyclare were the better team in the second half, but late goals from Millar and Louis Rooney eased the Blues through.

Cliftonville also took a win at Solitude on Tuesday night. Credit: Presseye

Under pressure Cliftonville found their goal touch to hammer Knockbreda 6-0 at Solitude.

A hat-trick from Jay Donnelly and goals from Rory Donnelly, Ciaran Caldwell, and Ross Lavery made it a perfect night for boss Barry Gray.

Crusaders also proved too strong for Donegal Celtic as Stephen Baxter's side recorded a 4-0 win at Seaview.

The visitors put up a good fight and were set to go into the break scoreless, but Billy Joe Burns fired home late on to give the Crues the edge.

Further goals from Philip Lowry and a brace by David Cushley saw the Crues safely into the next round.

Glentoran won out at the Oval. Credit: Pacemaker

Glentoran saw off Crumlin Star, who also missed a late penalty, 4-2 at The Oval - while Ballymena United beat H&W Welders 3-0.

Elsewhere, Carrick Rangers beat PSNI 4-2, and Dundela disposed of Glebe Rangers 4-0.

Meanwhile, Ards proved too strong for Larne by winning 3-0 at Inver Park.

Ards won out over Larne at Inver Park. Credit: Pacemaker

RESULTS