IF the four Bass Irish Cup quarter-finals conform to form and pattern this afternoon, the most competitive semi-final line-up for years will emerge.

Tie of the round is undoubtedly the clash between holders Linfield and Crusaders at Seaview. The teams have met on several other occasions this season, with Crusaders well out ahead, but there are, doubts about the fitness of their influential skipper, Sid Burrows.

Glentoran could end the season for first division Ballymena United at the Oval, Carrick Rangers are expected to be cannon fodder opponents for Glenavon, while Portadown, may have difficulty surviving, against Ards.