Linfield FC extended their winning run in the BOYLE Sports Premiership to four matches with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Carrick Rangers at Windsor Park. The Blues, who finished fourth last season with 62 points, are building momentum ahead of their next fixture away to Dungannon Swifts on September 12.
How did Linfield beat Carrick Rangers?
According to a report from Love Belfast, Ben Hall's second-half header proved decisive in a match that saw Carrick finish with nine men. David Healy's side had to work for the three points against a visiting team that arrived in good form. The first half was competitive and goalless, with Matthew Fitzpatrick coming closest for Linfield.
The game's major turning point came early in the second half when former Linfield defender Jimmy Callacher was sent off for bringing down Kobei Moore. Linfield capitalised on their numerical advantage ten minutes later. Kirk Millar delivered a cross from the right and Ben Hall powered a header past Nathan Gartside. Carrick's Paul Heatley was also dismissed in stoppage time. The win moved Linfield up the table after they started the day below Carrick, who had taken nine points from their first four games.
Who is Linfield's new loan signing?
The Belfast Telegraph reports that Linfield have added Rhys Brennan to their squad on a loan deal from Bohemians. The move is subject to international clearance. Brennan revealed that former Linfield favourite Pat Fenlon played a key role in convincing him to make the switch to Windsor Park.
Brennan's arrival provides additional options for manager David Healy as his team looks to maintain their improved league form. The Blues' recent results, including a 1-0 win over Cliftonville on August 21, show a team finding its rhythm. You can view the full squad list on our squad page. Linfield's next challenge is an away trip to face Dungannon Swifts, who currently sit sixth in the table.
What is former Linfield youth Braiden Graham doing now?
Another Belfast Telegraph story highlights the progress of former Linfield academy product Braiden Graham. The 19-year-old forward, who began his senior career with the Blues and featured in an Irish Cup Final, now plays for Everton's Under-21s. He scored a spectacular free-kick in a Premier League International Cup match against AC Milan this week.
Everton's head of academy player development Dave Hughes praised Graham's discipline and tactical development following the match. "Braiden is a top guy," Hughes told the Liverpool Echo. "He's a great, young professional who goes about his work really well every day." Graham was named in the Northern Ireland squad for friendlies in June and is in contention for Nations League fixtures this autumn. His continued development is being watched with interest back at his former club.
How does this form compare to last season?
Linfield's current run of four consecutive league victories marks a significant turnaround from their opening day 3-0 defeat to Ballymena United. During this winning streak, they have scored six goals and conceded just one. This positive form contrasts with the conclusion of the 2025 campaign, where they finished 11 points behind champions Larne.
The team's overall record last season was 18 wins, 8 draws and 7 losses from 33 games. Their goal difference of +32 was built on 56 goals scored and 24 conceded. Current recent form shows two wins and one loss from the last three matches. Fans can track the evolving league picture on our standings page. Linfield face Dungannon Swifts at Stangmore Park on September 12.
