Linfield beat Ballymena to reach Co Antrim Shield final

An Andrew Waterworth brace saw Linfield through to the Co Antrim Shield final. Credit: Presseye

Linfield have sealed their place in the final of the Co Antrim Shield with a 2-1 win over Ballymena in their twice-rescheduled semi-final.

The game initially scheduled for the end of November finally went ahead at Ballymena Showgrounds on Tuesday night.

A goal from Andy Waterworth in each half put David Healy’s side in the driving seat.

Ballymena and Linfield's semi-final was twice postponed because of inclement weather. Credit: Presseye

However, the Sky Blues’ Cathair Friel pulled one back for the hosts in the 77th minute.

Not even three minutes of added time was enough to find an equaliser though and Ballymena were left disappointed, while Linfield progressed.

They will now meet Crusaders in the final of the tournament.

David Healy applauds his side's win in the Co Antrim Shield semi-final. Credit: Presseye

Double goal scorer Waterworth was also celebrating a big milestone on the night.

He marked his 250th game for Linfield and told UTV he was pleased to be on the scoresheet, but more pleased to be into a competition final.

"We'll have something to look forward to now," he added, hailing the team performance that sealed the Blues' place.

  • VIDEO: Simon McIntrye's report, with reaction from Linfield's Andy Waterworth and Ballymena boss David Jeffrey