The stage is set for an exhilarating showdown as Glentoran and Cliftonville secured their places in the Women’s Challenge Cup final with commanding victories in the semi-finals.
Holders Glentoran once again demonstrated their prowess by defeating Sion Swifts 2-0 at Stangmore Park. The Glens showcased their strength and determination on the field, with goals from Nadene Caldwell and Kerry Beattie sealing their place in the final.
A Northern Ireland international, Caldwell stole the spotlight with a sensational long-range strike that left Sion Swifts’ goalkeeper Jennifer Currie helpless. Her goal, a product of precision and power, set the tone for Glentoran’s dominance.
Kerry Beattie extended their lead in the 55th minute, capitalizing on an inviting cross from Emily Wilson to slot the ball into an empty net. Despite moments of promise from Sion Swifts, including a close-range header from Tasmin McCarter, the Glens held firm to secure their fifth consecutive Women’s Challenge Cup final appearance.
The final promises to be a clash of titans, with Glentoran aiming to complete a remarkable league and cup double.
In the other semi-final clash, Cliftonville faced an injury-hit Lisburn Rangers side at Seaview. The Reds overcame adversity and sealed a place in the final with a 4-1 victory.
Cliftonville displayed resilience and determination despite missing top scorer Caitlin McGuinness and facing further setbacks due to injuries to Danielle Maxwell and Abbie Magee. The first half may have been uneventful, but the second half brought a flurry of action.
Kirsty McGuinness set the tone for Cliftonville’s resurgence, finding Carleton in the area, who calmly slotted the ball home. However, Lisburn Rangers responded swiftly, capitalizing on defensive errors to level the score.
The turning point came in the 73rd minute when Kathryn McConnell inadvertently directed the ball into her net, giving Cliftonville the lead once more. Marissa Callaghan added to the tally with a superb individual effort, showcasing her skill and composure.
Callaghan also played a pivotal role in Cliftonville’s final goal, dispossessing Jenna Corry and setting up Carleton for her second of the night.
With the Challenge Cup final on the horizon, Cliftonville aims to add to their impressive collection of domestic cup victories this season, having already secured the County Antrim Cup and League Cup.
The Women’s Challenge Cup final, set to take place at Windsor Park on Saturday, October 21, promises to be a thrilling encounter between two of the Women’s Premiership’s top teams. As Glentoran and Cliftonville prepare to battle for cup glory, fans eagerly anticipate an exciting and closely contested showdown.
Originally posted 2023-09-15 21:38:29.
