David Healy praised his Linfield side as they "ticked off" another game in their pursuit of the Irish Premiership title.

Friday night's 2-0 victory over Crusaders extended the Blues' lead at the top of the table to 19 points with seven games to play.

Second placed Glentoran have two matches in hand on their 'Big Two' rivals but Linfield know even if Declan Devine's side win those fixtures they still only need three more wins to claim a 57th league title.

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Of course if the Glens were to slip up in any of their rescheduled games there is the possibility the Blues could claim the Gibson Cup before the split happens.

For Healy though the focus is on themselves and ticking off the games as they come along. Speaking after the win at Seaview Healy said: "It's another game ticked off - it's a big win.

"Performance wise, I thought we were good, certainly in the second half and we were deserved winners. We created some good opportunities and good moments in the game."

Teenager Matthew Orr headed the visitors in front with 18 minutes to go before Matthew Fitzpatrick doubled their lead on 84 minutes as the Blues put the recent defeat to Coleraine behind them.

"We knew when you come to Seaview you have to sure you're in the game and physically match them up," added Healy. "The team selection raised a few eyebrows but we got the job done."

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