Linfield ensure they will be Christmas No.1 after victory over Coleraine

Linfield 2 Coleraine 1

Euan East celebrates scoring Linfield's opening goal against Coleraine

Rhys Annett celebrates after scoring Linfield's second goal against Coleraine

Euan East heads in Linfield's opening goal against Coleraine

David Healy’s Linfield will top the Christmas League charts following this crucial win over Coleraine at Windsor Park.

Second half goals from defender Euan East and teenage striker Rhys Annett guaranteed David Healy’s men three priceless points, which keeps them ahead of title holders Larne. Substitute Andy Mitchell pulled one back for the visitors late on.

It also means the Blues will go into Boxing Day’s Big Two showdown with Glentoran at the international arena in the best possible shape.

Since suffering their worst defeat of the season earlier this month when walloped across town at the home of their biggest rivals, Healy’s team have responded magnificently.

Not only did they bounce back with three straight League wins, but they have also booked a slot in the BetMcLean Cup semi-final after following a penalty shootout triumph over Larne.

In contrast, since winning at Crusaders on November 4, the Bannsiders have won only one League game – that was against Loughgall earlier this month.

Again, the size of the crowd was affected by the public transport 24-hour strike which meant only around 100 visiting fans occupied the North Stand.

Blues boss Healy had to reshape his team that triumphed at Glenavon last weekend as he was without his injured skipper and the banned Joel Cooper – he picked up five yellow cards.

Young gun Aodhan Doherty was handed his first start, while Josh Archer was drafted into midfield.

Coleraine chief Oran Kearney also revamped his line-up, drafting in defender Darren