Limavady Utd dump Linfield out of Irish Cup

Proud Limavady United manager Paul Owens has described Friday night's Irish Cup sixth round defeat of Linfield as the highlight of his career.

A single Ryan McNickle goal in the first half was enough to see the Roesiders get past the record 44-times winners of the competition on a famous night at the Coleraine Showgrounds.

David Healy's side had their chances, hitting the woodwork on a number of occasions, most notably from a Matthew Fitzpatrick penalty.

Limavady goalkeeper Marty Gallagher produced a string of fine saves to repel the Blues attack, particularly in the dying stages.

The home side, too, had their chances and Lewis Tosh was denied only by the width of the woodwork in the final few moments.

But Limavady, backboned by the Lowry brothers - Stephen and Philip - and a host of experienced Irish League players saw the game out and deservedly take their place in the quarter-finals.

Linfield manager David Healy was magnanimous afterwards, paying tribute to Linfield's opponents amid his and his team's disappointment.

The remaining sixth round games take place on Saturday - weather permitting - with Coleraine facing a tough challenge at in-form Carrick Rangers.

For Limavady players and management it's a day to reflect on arguably the biggest moment in the club's history.

* For more reporting on Limavady United's historic victory see Tuesday's newspaper.