Glentoran Triumphs Over Cliftonville on Penalties, Advances to BetMcLean Cup Semis
Glentoran triumphed over Cliftonville in a thrilling penalty shootout, advancing to the semi-finals of the BetMcLean Cup. The match showcased intense competition, with both teams exchanging chances throughout.
Match Overview
The game began with Glentoran applying immediate pressure. Jordan Stewart’s shot was deflected off Cliftonville defender Odhran Casey, prompting a quick save from goalkeeper PJ Morrison. After Morrison diverted the shot, Ryan Cooney delivered a corner, which Marcus Kane attempted to volley, only for Morrison to make another crucial save.
First Half Highlights
- Glentoran dominated the early exchanges.
- Stewart’s fierce shot was again pushed away by Morrison.
- Kane narrowly missed with a shot that struck the side netting.
Cliftonville’s first significant chance arrived when Joe Gormley received a through ball. However, his low shot was blocked by Glens keeper Billy Crellin, preserving the scoreline.
Second Half and Extra Time
In the second half, Glentoran maintained their offensive momentum but struggled to convert chances into goals. Cliftonville provided sporadic threats, keeping the game competitive.
As extra time unfolded, both teams created significant opportunities, yet neither could find the back of the net initially. The deadlock was eventually broken six minutes into the second extra period. Rory Hale’s free-kick found Jack Keaney, who helped it into the path of McWoods, allowing him to score past Crellin.
The lead was short-lived, as Danny Amos’s corner kick led to Jenkins equalizing just four minutes later. The match concluded in a tense penalty shootout, where the first nine penalties were converted successfully.
Decisive Penalty Shootout
The tension peaked when Glentoran’s Gordan stepped up to take his shot. The penalty was saved by Billy Crellin, guaranteeing Glentoran’s spot in the semi-finals of the BetMcLean Cup.
