BetMcLean Cup: Linfield book place in final after win over Ballymena

Issac Baird headed home the only goal of the game at Windsor Park

Issac Baird celebrates after heading home for Linfield in their semi-final clash with Ballymena United
Author: Nigel GouldPublished 29th Jan 2026

Linfield are into the final of the BetMcLean Cup.

They booked their place in the March showpiece after a 1-0 win over Ballymena United at Windsor Park last night (Wednesday).

Issac Baird headed home after just 12 minutes to send the Blues through.

They will now meet either Glentoran or Coleraine who play in a rescheduled semi next week.

David Healy turns to the supporters after Linfield progressed to the BetMcLean Cup final

After the game boss David Healy was delighted to see his team progress but said they needed to be more clinical in front of goal.

Speaking to Linfield TV he said: "I think we have got to be more destructive, more ruthless in the final third - we need to pick better passes and need to be more clinical.

"All in all though, pleased we got a clean sheet - through to first cup final - we look forward to it."

Meanwhile, the final will be played at Windsor on march 15th.