Larne secured their place in the semi-finals of the Irish Cup after Rohan Ferguson made three crucial saves during the penalty shootout against Glentoran, keeping alive their aspirations of clinching both the Irish Premiership and the Irish Cup.
Glentoran initially took the lead when Cammy Palmer scored just before half-time, but Andy Ryan equalized for Gary Haveron’s team in the 76th minute.
Advertisement
The match saw MJ Kamson-Kamara receive a red card in the 87th minute for a second yellow, and with no winner emerging in extra time, Cricky Gallagher’s penalty proved decisive for Larne.
This Saturday, the defending champions Dungannon Swifts will host Championship side H&W Welders, while Limavady United faces local rivals Coleraine, and Loughgall welcomes last year’s runners-up, Cliftonville.
Larne’s pursuit of their first Irish Cup title continues
In a first half with limited chances, Andy Ryan almost put the visitors ahead, forcing Andrew Mills into a fine save midway through the first period.
Advertisement
Just when it seemed both teams would head into half-time level, the deadlock was broken in added time. A well-coordinated Glentoran attack resulted in Pat Hoban assisting Palmer with a clever flick, allowing the midfielder to score with a precise shot into the bottom corner, leaving Rohan Ferguson unable to react.
Glentoran continued with high intensity at the start of the second half, but they struggled to create any significant opportunities.
As the match approached the final quarter, Larne equalized through Ryan, who tapped in from close range after substitute Conor McKendry delivered a perfectly placed square ball into the six-yard box.
Advertisement
In a turn of events, Glentoran was reduced to 10 men just minutes from the end when Kamson Kamara was sent off for a second yellow card.
With a one-man advantage in extra time, Larne tried to capitalize but could not secure a winner, leading to a penalty shootout to decide the Irish Cup quarter-final.
Ferguson emerged as the hero for Larne, saving three penalties and propelling the Inver Reds into the semi-finals.