Fri 25 Sep 2026, 10:36
Kelly Bailie will make her final home appearance for Glentoran Women against Lisburn Rangers on Sunday, determined to help the Glens finish a difficult week and the season strongly.
The game at Blanchflower Stadium (kick-off 4.30pm) comes after defeat to Linfield ended Glentoran’s hopes of retaining the Sports Direct Women’s Premiership title.
Bailie, who will retire at the end of the season after 30 seasons and 800 appearances for the club, says the disappointment must drive the team through its remaining two league games and Irish Cup final.
“Sunday’s defeat to Linfield was tough to take for many reasons, none more so than the fact it ended our reign as champions,” said Bailie.
“We knew we couldn’t afford any slip-ups because of the gap at the top. Unfortunately, we didn’t play as well as we know we can, and it cost us.
“In a league this competitive, you cannot afford to lose three games and give yourself such a big mountain to climb.
“Losing both league meetings with Cliftonville is where the damage was done. We worked hard to close the gap, but they didn’t drop points.
“We cannot let that disappointment weigh us down. We still have the chance to finish the season with major silverware, and we have to use how we’re feeling now to drive us through these final three games.”
Bailie congratulated Cliftonville on their third Premiership title and said the rivalry between the sides has helped push both clubs forward.
“The best team finishes top, and Cliftonville have proved to be that this season,” she said.
“We’ve had some great battles with them over the last few years, and I think we’ve driven each other on.
“They beat us in the Women’s Cup final and won both league meetings this season. Those results have made the difference.
“We have two more games against them, one in the league and one in the Irish Cup final. We have to go into both believing we can win.”
Sunday will give Bailie one last opportunity to play in front of the home supporters who have followed her throughout her Glentoran career.
“It will be emotional playing at home for the last time,” she said. “I’ve spent 30 seasons at this club, and the people here mean a great deal to me.
“But we still have games to play, and I want to help the team finish the season strongly.
“I’d urge the fans to get behind us for these final three games. Their support means a lot and makes a difference. We want to repay that faith with a strong finish.”
