David Healy: It’s the Linfield way to stand up and deliver after suffering setbacks

Linfield’s Dane McCullough turns away from Larne’s Andy Ryan during the BetMcLean Cup clash at Inver Park

Linfield manager David Healy praised the resilience his players showed to overcome Larne in the BetMcLean Cup

Linfield manager David Healy has spoken about his pleasure at seeing his players ‘stand up and show pride in the jersey’ at Larne when eyes were on his team inside and outside the club.

The Blues bounced back from their humiliating 4-0 defeat in the Sports Direct Premiership at Glentoran with a dramatic penalty shoot-out victory over Larne on Tuesday night in the Quarter-Finals of the BetMcLean Cup.

Trailing 2-1 in the final seconds of extra-time and a man down after Kyle McClean’s red card, Healy’s men refused to give in, scoring an equaliser through teenage substitute Braiden Graham to send the tie to penalties.

During Healy’s time as manager, one of his great strengths has been to respond to setbacks, and on Saturday, he will hope to return to winning ways in the League at home to Dungannon Swifts.

“There would have been a lot of eyes on us against Larne from the media and outside of the club,” said Healy.

Euan East headed Linfield in front en route to their eventual penalty shoot-out success over Larne in the BetMcLean Cup

“There would also have been a few eyes on us from in-house, our fans and the board, who would have been questioning what type of performance and result we would deliver, so it was important to stand up and show pride in the jersey.

“I put that ability to bounce back down to the traditions of this football club.

“I am privileged to, hopefully, lead by example.

“I grew up in an era when Linfield won games in the 90th minute. So, it is important we go to the final whistle.

“We were a