Shelbourne's first leg match against Linfield was a chaotic affair, with the visitors reduced to 10 men after just 18 minutes. Matthew Fitzpatrick was sent off for a high foot that caught Milan Mbeng in the midriff. The hosts were awarded a penalty three minutes before half-time, but Odubeko skied his effort over the crossbar. However, Shelbourne were given another opportunity from the spot four minutes later, and this time Wood made no mistake from 12 yards. Less than a minute into the second half, Shelbourne doubled their lead, with substitute Caffrey pulling the ball back to Odubeko, who found the back of the net from inside the area. Linfield pulled a goal back through Offord, but Caffrey added a third for the hosts to ensure a two-goal advantage going into the second leg. David Healy's side had a chance to equalise from the spot, but Offord's effort was saved by Wessel Speel. The win was a crucial one for Shelbourne, who will look to build on this momentum in the second leg. The match was played at Tolka Park, Shelbourne's home ground, in front of a lively crowd. The hosts' manager will be pleased with the performance of his team, particularly the impact of substitute Caffrey. The second leg will be played in Belfast next Thursday, and Shelbourne will be looking to secure a positive result to progress to the next round.