Glentoran Edges Linfield in Women’s Irish Cup Semi-Final Showdown

Glentoran booked their place in the Women’s Irish Cup semi-finals with a tense 2-1 win over fierce rivals Linfield at the Blanchflower Stadium, thanks to a ruthless double from Naomi McLaughlin.

Kim Turner’s side absorbed early pressure, then struck first. On 36 minutes, McLaughlin found the breakthrough, giving Glentoran a precious lead in a cagey tie that rarely allowed room for error.

Linfield, though, refused to fold. Cora Chambers dragged the Blues level, setting up a nervy finale between two sides who know each other far too well to let the occasion drift.

The game tightened, challenges sharpened, and every clearance drew a roar. With eight minutes left, the decisive moment arrived. McLaughlin, again, stepped up, burying her second of the night to silence the home support and send Glentoran into the last four.

Cliftonville cruise, holders stay on track

Holders Cliftonville made far lighter work of their quarter-final, easing past Derry City 3-0 to keep their grip on the trophy intact.

An early own goal settled any nerves and tilted the tie firmly in the Reds’ favour. From there, Cliftonville controlled the tempo. Teegan Lynch added the second before the interval, and after the restart Louise McDaniel finished the job, her goal wrapping up a professional, commanding performance.

Crusaders dig deep against champions Sion Swifts

At Seaview, Crusaders Strikers had to fight for everything in a gritty 2-1 win over Sion Swifts, the side already crowned Championship title winners.

Ali Nelson fired Crusaders in front, a finish that reflected the Premiership side’s sharpness in the final third. When Rebecca Bassett doubled the advantage, it looked like Crusaders might pull clear.

Sion Swifts had other ideas. Substitute Caoimhe Heron came off the bench and hauled them back into the contest, setting up a tense closing spell. Crusaders were forced to defend deep, but they held their shape, saw out the pressure, and secured their semi-final place.

Lisburn complete last-four lineup

Lisburn claimed the final semi-final spot with a tight 1-0 victory over Ballymena United, edging a narrow contest to join Glentoran, Cliftonville and Crusaders in a compelling last four.

Four clubs left. One trophy on the line. The Women’s Irish Cup is heading for a fierce finish.