BetMcLean Cup second round draw throws up massive showdown

Linfield have been drawn against arch rivals Glentoran in the second round of the BetMcLean Cup.

The draw for the second stage of the competition was made on Wednesday at Windsor Park, and conducted by former Blues midfielder Paul McAreavey and Paul McLean from sponsors, BetMcLean.

The 'Big Two' are due to meet on Friday night in the Premiership, and now they have another huge showdown to prepare for.

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Linfield booked their place in the second round with a 3-0 win over Dundela on Tuesday night, while Glentoran claimed a 2-0 victory over Dergview.

It is one of only two all-Premiership ties in the next stage, with Crusaders hosting Coleraine in the other.

Elsewhere, Premier Intermediate League underdogs Queen's University - who knocked out Carrick Rangers - will take on Championship side Annagh United, while Larne will travel to Institute.

Dungannon Swifts take on Dollingstown and Bangor play Cliftonville, while high-flying Ballymena United have home advantage against Ards.

Also in the second round, Glenavon will travel to Armagh City.

Former Linfield midfielder McAreavey said on the Blues v Glens fixture: "It is crazy. What a game, so early in the competition. It is mouth-watering. Any time there is a Big Two derby it is fantastic.

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"Cliftonville face a tough test at Bangor. Lee Feeney is going a great job there and they will fancy an upset.

"The teams will look at the big boys playing against each other and they will look to sneak round the back. They will want a run in the competition."

BetMcLean Cup round two draw:

• Crusaders vs Coleraine

• Linfield vs Glentoran

• Dungannon Swifts vs Dollingstown

• Bangor vs Cliftonville

• Ballymena United vs Ards

• Armagh City vs Glenavon

• Queen's University vs Annagh United

• Institute vs Larne

Ties to be played Tuesday/Wednesday, November 5-6.

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