Glentoran's pre-match decision surprised David Healy as they opted not to give Linfield a guard of honour, a tradition typically afforded to league champions. Healy, the Linfield manager, said he was taken aback by the move, but acknowledged that it was up to each individual club to decide whether to participate in the tradition. In recent seasons, opposition clubs have applauded the league winners onto the pitch once they have been confirmed as champions. The Blues had afforded Larne the honour after they won the Irish Premiership two seasons ago, and Dungannon Swifts had welcomed Healy's men out onto the pitch at Stangmore Park last month after their 57th league title was secured. Healy stated that he would have made sure his team formed a guard of honour if the situation were reversed. He also expressed huge respect for Declan and Paddy McCourt, Glentoran's assistant manager, who is one of his best mates in football. The final Big Two meeting of the season saw both teams enter the pitch as normal and shake hands before kick-off. Linfield were presented with the Gibson Cup post-match, celebrating their 57th league title. Healy's comments came after the game, where he downplayed the significance of Glentoran's decision, saying it was about his team's day. The respect between the two teams was evident, despite the surprise at Glentoran's pre-match decision. Healy's focus was on his team's achievement, and the guard of honour was not a major concern for him. The game marked the end of the season for both teams, with Linfield celebrating their championship win. Glentoran's decision may have sparked surprise, but it did not dampen the spirits of the Linfield team, who were celebrating their title win.