Cup final win sees Linfield complete double

Linfield FC completed a remarkable sixth domestic double in seven years with a 4-1 victory over Crusaders FC in Saturday's Irish Cup final.

Striker Mark McAllister scored twice in the first-half, with Michael Carvill and Jamie Mulgrew also on target at Windsor Park for the Blues, who lifted the Northern Irish league title last weekend. A deflected free-kick from captain Colin Coates had brought Crusaders back into contention at 2-1, but it proved little more than a consolation.

Linfield boss David Jeffrey, celebrating the 30th trophy of his 15-year managerial reign with the Belfast club, praised the "incredible effort" of his players. "I am immensely proud of the character we have shown throughout this season," he said. "Every year my players put themselves under immense scrutiny and every year they deliver. Six doubles in seven years is fantastic. It hasn't been done before in the Irish League and I don't think it is a record that will ever be surpassed."

McAllister, who picked up the man of the match award for his two-goal salvo, added: "It's been another tremendous effort by everyone at the club. I'm over the moon to score two goals in the final. This is my third double since joining Linfield so I'm delighted. I hope there's more to come."