Linfield Calls for Support Ahead of UEFA Conference League Play-Off
UEFA Conference League Play-Off Second Leg: Linfield vs. Shelbourne
Venue: Windsor Park, Belfast Date: Thursday, 28 August Kick-off: 19:45 BST
Coverage: Watch live on BBC iPlayer, BBC Sport website and app
Linfield manager David Healy has called on fans to support the team in a "positive way" during the second leg of their UEFA Conference League play-off against Shelbourne. The Blues are seeking to advance to the league or group phase of a European competition for the first time, but currently trail 3-1 following a tumultuous first leg at Tolka Park last week.
In anticipation of Thursday's match at Windsor Park, which will be broadcast live on BBC iPlayer and the BBC Sport website, Linfield issued a statement urging supporters to refrain from actions that could "further damage the name and reputation" of the club and potentially lead to additional financial penalties.
The Belfast club was recently fined €10,000 (£8,727) for the "racist and/or discriminatory behaviour of its supporters," as well as €2,000 (£1,745) for the use of fireworks during their Champions League qualifier against Shelbourne last month. Additionally, they received a partial stadium ban, suspended for two years.
Healy emphasized the significant role fans play, stating, "The club put out a statement to encourage supporters to give their support in a positive way; don’t let the club down. We have an unbelievable fanbase, especially here on a European night, so we are asking them to come and get behind the team and create the atmosphere."
Scoring First is Crucial - Healy
The upcoming match in Belfast marks the fourth encounter between the two teams this season, and Healy believes Linfield is ready to secure a victory if they can start strong. "Getting the first goal is paramount, and if we do, who knows what can happen after that?" he noted. "You’ve always got a chance; substitutes could come on and be the heroes, who knows? It is important we don’t put ourselves out of the tie, and that will be the message."
Healy is hopeful that Linfield can demonstrate the decisiveness they have previously lacked against the League of Ireland champions. "At this stage, we all feel it is an opportunity, albeit a tough ask, but we are capable of coming out with a positive result. A strong performance gives you the chance to achieve that. Fine margins cost us last week; being down to 10 men 17 minutes into the game didn’t help. Great credit to the players, they showed resolve. We had chances, missed the penalty, and you felt we were capable of scoring. With 11 players on Thursday night, a great crowd, and the chances we create, we hope to be more clinical."