Semi Final focus

It's Semi Final time again. Linfield must be favourites, however, drawing Cliftonville in the semis is probably the toughest draw. The Wee Reds are through after beating The Glens at the Oval 1-0 thanks to a Chris Scannell goal in the 22nd min (his 24th of the season).

Cliftonville probably fancy their chances as this is their biggest chance of winning some major silverware especially as they've slipped disappointingly down the table. The Blues on the other hand relish these games and as expected are also chasing Glentoran for the league. The Blues comphrensively beat Lisburn Distillery 3-0 at Windsor Pk. The scoreline could've been a lot higher as it was a disappointing display from the Whites.

The other Semi Final sees Crusaders versus Institute. The Crues powered their way to the semis thanks to a 5-2 drubbing of Portadown away at Shamrock Pk. Surprise package Institute are The Maiden City's representatives making their first ever Irish Cup semi final appearance thanks to a 2-1 win over Newry City at The Riverside Stadium.


Both semis will played on Saturday 4th April 2009

Linfield v Cliftonville at The Oval -Belfast (KO 1.05pm)

Crusaders v Institute at The Showgrounds-Ballymena (KO 3.00pm)