It was a special evening in Carrickfergus, with a large contingent of American investors and supporters in attendance, adding to the atmosphere as Stephen Baxter’s side delivered a result to match the occasion.
Linfield created the first change of the game, with Joshua Archer firing narrowly wide during an early spell of pressure. The visitors continued to probe, but Carrick remained composed and looked dangerous on the counterattack. Paul Heatley and Joe Moore had several bursts through the Linfield defence, Heatley coming closest to opening the scoring, only to be denied by Chris Johns.
The turning point arrived midway through the first half when Darragh Leahy was shown a red card for pulling back Joe Moore as he raced through on goal, leaving Linfield to play more than half the game with 10 men.
Rangers made their numerical advantage count just before the break. A well-delivered free-kick caused problems inside the Linfield penalty area, and after Johns parried the initial effort, Michael Olosunde reacted quickest to convert from close range - marking his first goal for the club in front of an energised home support.
Carrick continued to press after the restart, with Heatley superbly denied by Johns early in the second half before a well worked move saw Mikey Place cross to the perfectly positioned Luke McCullough to fire home from 10 yards and double the advantage.
Linfield pushed late in search of a response, but Carrick’s defence remained resolute to see out an impressive and deserved victory.
The result sees Carrick Rangers enter the split phase of the league in seventh place, while also confirming their Premiership status for next season on momentous night at Taylors Avenue.
The 'Gers return to league action at home to Crusaders next Saturday (28th March), kick-off at 3pm.
