Exciting County Antrim Shield Clash: Carrick Triumphs Over Glentoran in Penalty Shootout while Ballymena Advances
Carrick Rangers achieved a thrilling victory over Glentoran in the County Antrim Shield, securing a 5-4 win in a penalty shootout at Taylors Avenue. This match led to Glentoran being eliminated from the tournament, as Carrick took the upper hand with key performances from their players.
Match Highlights
The game opened with Carrick Rangers taking the lead through a header from Jimmy Callacher. However, Glentoran equalized when Joe Thomson converted a penalty, awarded after Marcus Kane was fouled in the box. MJ Kamson-Kamara then put the Glens ahead with his debut goal for the club.
As the match approached its conclusion, Jack Scott of Carrick leveled the score again with another penalty, bringing the score to 2-2. With no extra time in the County Antrim Shield format, the contest progressed directly to penalties.
Penalty Shootout Outcome
- Joe Thomson was the only player to miss a penalty, striking the post during Glentoran’s first attempt.
- Ultimately, Carrick triumphed with a score of 5-4 in penalties to advance to the next round.
Ballymena’s Victory
In another quarter-final match, Ballymena United edged past Championship side Newington with a narrow 1-0 victory, thanks to a penalty scored by Ben Kennedy in the second half. This victory allowed Ballymena to progress further in the tournament.
Upcoming Quarter-Final Matches
Two additional quarter-finals are scheduled for Tuesday, 21 October:
- Cliftonville vs. Linfield at Solitude
- Larne vs. Ballymacash Rangers
Mid-Ulster Cup Developments
In the Mid-Ulster Cup, Glenavon faced a challenging debut for their new manager, Michael O’Connor. They were eliminated in a penalty shootout against Championship leaders Annagh United after a goalless draw, with Annagh advancing after Josh Kee’s penalty was saved.
Additionally, Rathfriland Rangers triumphed over Dungannon Swifts with a 6-5 win in penalties following a 1-1 draw. Armagh City secured a 1-0 victory against Loughgall, while Portadown defeated Warrenpoint Town decisively with a 3-0 scoreline.
North West Cup Finals
In the North West Cup, Limavady United advanced to the final after a dramatic penalty shootout victory over Coleraine, ending 12-11 after a 2-2 draw. Strabane Athletic also reached the final after an impressive 5-0 win against Institute at the Brandywell.
