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

Naomi McLaughlin turned a tense derby into her own personal stage as Glentoran edged past Linfield 2-1 to reach the semi-finals of the Women’s Irish Cup.

At the Blanchflower Stadium, the breakthrough came nine minutes before the interval. McLaughlin found the opener, tilting a tight contest in Glentoran’s favour and silencing the early Linfield noise.

Linfield refused to fold. Cora Chambers hauled the Blues level, dragging the tie back into the balance and lifting the home support as the game opened up.

The clock ticked down. Nerves grew. Then McLaughlin struck again with eight minutes left, her second of the night deciding a fierce contest and driving Kim Turner’s side into the final four.

Cliftonville cruise past Derry City

Holders Cliftonville moved through with far less drama, easing to a 3-0 win over Derry City to keep their grip on the trophy intact.

An early own goal handed the Reds the perfect start and from there they controlled the tie. Teegan Lynch added a second before the break, stretching the lead and the sense of inevitability.

After the restart, Louise McDaniel put the result beyond doubt, completing a professional job and sending the champions back into the semi-finals without alarm.

Crusaders Strikers dig deep against Sion Swifts

At Seaview, Crusaders Strikers had to work for it but eventually saw off Championship winners Sion Swifts 2-1.

Ali Nelson struck first to give the Premiership side the advantage, and when Rebecca Bassett doubled that lead, Crusaders looked to be cruising.

Sion Swifts had other ideas. Substitute Caoimhe Heron pulled one back to spark a late surge, but Crusaders held their shape and their nerve to see the game out.

Lisburn complete semi-final line-up

Lisburn claimed the final semi-final place with a narrow 1-0 victory over Ballymena United, sealing a hard-fought win to join Glentoran, Cliftonville and Crusaders Strikers in a last four packed with storylines and ambition.