BALLYMENA United have been paired with league-leaders Crusaders in the semi-finals of the Paddy Power County Antrim Shield.

In the other semi-final Linfield will take on holders Cliftonville in a repeat of last season's final.

United's progression to the semi-final stage of the Shield has been relatively easy with comfortable wins over Championship sides Harland & Wolff Welders and Donegal Celtic. Whilst Crusaders have also dodged potientially tricky Championship opponents in East-Antrim duo Carrick Rangers and Larne, respectively.

The Sky Blues took on the Irish Cup holders at the same stage of the competition two seasons ago - losing 2-1 to the Crues in October 2007 with Johnny Flynn scoring on his debut. United also lost to Roy Walker's Crusaders in 1995 at the last-four stage.

The game has been scheduled to be played at a neutral venue on Tuesday the 20th October with a 7.30pm kick-off.