Linfield extended their winning run to three matches with a 2-0 victory away to Limavady in the Irish Premiership's fourth week. The result lifts David Healy's side to nine points, placing them among a quartet of teams snapping at the heels of early leaders Coleraine.
Five away wins highlighted a dramatic round of fixtures. Dungannon Swifts, Carrick Rangers, and Crusaders also recorded victories to join Linfield on nine points from three wins and a loss. This sets up a fascinating September, with Linfield currently sitting 11 points behind last season's champions Larne in the final 2025 standings, having finished fourth with 62 points from 33 games.
Linfield's season began with a disappointing defeat to Ballymena United. They have responded emphatically, winning their next three games without conceding a goal in the last two. At the Limavady Showgrounds, Adam Frizzell was instrumental, first setting up Matthew Fitzpatrick for his opening goal of the campaign before scoring one himself in the second half. This defensive solidity is a welcome sign for a team that conceded 24 goals last season, though they also scored a healthy 56.
Dungannon Swifts have been impressive since an opening day 3-1 loss to Coleraine. Manager Rodney McAree has overseen wins against Portadown, Bangor, and Cliftonville, continuing the club's trend of top-six finishes. New signing Kris Lowe has bolstered the squad, which former Portadown boss Niall Currie called "the strongest Dungannon squad there has been." Midfielder Sean McAllister has already netted three times.
Carrick Rangers, led by Stephen Baxter, also have nine points. Veteran striker Paul Heatley, 39, has been key, scoring three goals after signing a new one-year deal in the summer. He partners with Danny Gibson in attack. Their 4-0 win over Bangor could have been more severe, as they hit the woodwork four times, prompting Bangor manager Lee Feeney to remark his side "were lucky it was only four."
Crusaders have bounced back strongly after securing their Premiership status via a play-off last term. A loss to Cliftonville on day one has been followed by three straight wins, including a 2-1 triumph at Glentoran's Oval ground. Manager Declan Caddell has rebuilt after losing key scorers Fraser Bryden and Musa Dibaga, bringing in players from Scotland. New signings Owen Wardell and Aaron Reid both scored against Glentoran.
The focus now turns to a challenging September schedule. Before that, they face a series of tests that will define their early season credentials. Maintaining their current form will be essential to close the gap in the standings and mount a serious title challenge. The team's recent run, contrasting with their WLLLW form at the end of last season, shows a positive shift in momentum they will aim to carry forward.
