The League duels between the two ended in 3-0 and 3-1 successes for the Glens. When they met in the Coca Cola Women’s Irish Cup the Glens again won, this time 2-0, revealing statistics that lay bare the daunting task that awaits the Orange and Blacks.
Glentoran’s incentive is a treble-winning season. With the League title safely banked and a place in the Coca Cola final booked; what price that this will be the champions’ second piece of silverware? They must fancy their chances of retaining a trophy they have won seven times in the past decade. They squeezed into the final courtesy of a Rose Todd goal in a 1-0 semi-final win over their old nemesis Crusaders Strikers. Their first round opponents Fermanagh Mallards withdrew.
At the other end of the scale Mid Ulster had to endure the pressure of a relegation play-off after finishing second from bottom. But, belatedly, their season ignited in their play-off contest with the Championship’s Cliftonville, where they turned in a scintillating first leg, winning by an unbelievable 9-0 against a side hotly tipped to make it back to the Premiership. It was their greatest performance.
They will hope for a repeat show against Glentoran. Their previous Cup ties are encouraging. A brilliant 5-1 cruise over Loughgall Lakers was followed by a 6-0 thrashing of Ballymena All-Stars, two very impressive victories. The Cookstown ladies have plenty to offer the final. They won’t be overawed. Glentoran as usual will be professional in their approach. Mid Ulster will have to be just as professional.
Report – Sammy Martin
Match takes place Monday 26th September at Solitude with 7.30pm KO.
