Monday 20 Jul 2026

Irish FA Women's Challenge Cup second round recap

All the leading contenders remain in the hunt for Irish FA Women's Challenge Cup honours following a series of impressive second-round performances.

Holders Cliftonville Ladies safely negotiated an all-Premiership tie as they overcame Lisburn Rangers 3-2 at Solitude in the 'tie of the round'.

Caitlin McGuinness, Louise McDaniel and Teegan Lynch were on target for the Reds before Caoimhe Gelston Mulholland and Anna Smyth struck late for the visitors.

Last season's losing finalists, Linfield Women, also progressed in emphatic fashion at Midgley Park.

Cora Chambers and Eva Myles each scored four goals, while Zoe McGlynn, Sophie McKnight and Rachel McLaren also found the net in a dominant display against Mid Ulster Ladies.

Current league champions Glentoran Women eased through with a convincing victory over Comber Rec. Ladies at the Blanchflower Stadium.

Rachel Rogan claimed a hat-trick, Aimee Kerr scored twice, and Clodagh Maguire and Kelly Bailie were also on target as Glentoran booked their place in the next round.

There was one notable upset as Championship side Sion Swifts Ladies knocked out top flight opponents Larne Women on penalties after a 2-2 draw.

Rachel Barnaby scored both of Swifts' goals in normal time, while Hollie Johnston and Maureen Quinn replied for Larne.

Keeper Kerry McCready then made two saves in the shoot-out, with Barnaby, Ciarah Quigg and captain Zoe Green all converting their penalties to send the hosts through.

Lisburn Ladies also advanced after a strong second-half display at home to Maiden City Ladies.

Rebecca Magee scored twice, Mea Mezza added a brace, while Zoe Rodgers, Jessica Hall and Jemma White all found the net, with an own goal from Ciara Parke completing the scoring.

Derry City Women booked their place in the third round with an impressive victory over Bangor Ladies.

Tara O'Connor-Farren led the way with four goals, while Chelsea Sheerin and Cache Crumlish-Hawes each scored twice and Ellen McDermott also got on the scoresheet. Emi Wynne netted Bangor's consolation.

Ballymena United Women completed the last eight line-up with a disciplined away performance against Craigavon City, where first-half goals from Orla Lemon and Hannah Firth proved enough to secure the win.