Ciaran Caldwell slotted home a penalty on 70 minutes after William Murphy had raised his foot too high in the area.

BBC: Cliftonville 3-1 Linfield

However, Thompson's treble and strikes from Glenn Ferguson, Aiden O'Kane, William Murphy and Chris Kingsberry, gave the Blues plenty to spare.

BBC: CREST CO ANTRIM SHIELD

Linfield midfielder Conor Downey was forced off after 39 minutes with a hamstring injury and he was replaced by William Murphy.

BBC: SPORT | Football | Irish | Linfield 3-1 Derry City