IT’S UNITED v CRUES IN LAST EIGHT

BALLYMENA United skipper Jim

Ervin scored his first goal in almost four years as the Sky Blues booked a quarter-final date with Crusaders in the Tennent’s Irish Cup.

Towering striker Adam Lecky also bagged a brace and Cathair Friel was on target from the penalty spot as the Braidmen bounced back from an early shock against Portadown.

Adam Salley had fired the Championship visitors into a 10th minute lead with a soaring effort into the top corner before United hit back.

Friel levelled soon after with a 16th minute penalty after referee Ross Dunlop pointed to the spot when Jonny Addis fell under a challenge from Kevin Braniff.

And Friel turned provider for Ballymena’s second, curling a cross into the path of Lecky who finished off a flowing move with a flashing near post header.

Lecky killed off the tie in the 75th minute when he pounced after Tuda Murphy had parried Leroy Millar’s low drive.

And the biggest cheer of the night was reserved for veteran defender Ervin who got in on the act with a low rifled finish past Murphy three minutes later.

Elsewhere, a Paul Mcelroy penalty secured Dungannon Swifts safe passage to the last-eight of the blue riband competition with a 1-0 win over Glenavon at Mourneview Park.

Mcelroy sent Jonny Tuffey the wrong way from the spot after drawing a foul from Seamus Sharkey inside the area.

The Swifts will play Ballinamallard

United in the quarters after the Mallards beat Carrick Rangers 1-0 at Ferney Park.

Josh Mcilwaine headed the winner for Harry Mcconkey’s men, rising highest to head Aaron Arkinson’s corner past Aaron Hogg.

Warrenpoint Town booked a last-eight tie with Larne Tech Old

Boys thanks to a 2-0 win over Intermediate outfit Queen’s who twice hit the woodwork at Milltown.

Philip Donnelly hit a first-half opener for Town before a Matthew Torrens own goal sent Stephen Mcdonnell’s men into the quarters.

ZCRUSADERS will host Linfield in the County Antrim Shield final on March 12 after winning a toss to decide the venue of the game.

GOAL Jim Erwin (right) enjoys his moment