Glentoran suffered a major setback in the Sports Direct Women’s Premiership title race after a 2-1 defeat against leaders Cliftonville at Blanchflower Stadium.

Nadene Caldwell’s powerful second-half strike brought the Glens level after Teegan Lynch had opened the scoring, but Caitlin McGuinness struck with 10 minutes remaining to secure victory for the visitors.

Both sides made an energetic start to a fixture carrying significant importance at the top of the table. Naomi McLaughlin tested Emma Higgins from distance, while Caldwell produced an important goal-line clearance to deny Lynch at the other end.

Gracie Conway was next to threaten for Glentoran, although her low effort from outside the penalty area was comfortably gathered by Higgins.

Cliftonville broke the deadlock in the 23rd minute when Lynch converted Kirsty McGuinness’ pass from close range.

Ellie Scott then produced two excellent saves in quick succession, first keeping out Kirsty McGuinness’ free-kick before reacting sharply to gather Abbie Magee’s effort from the rebound.

Glentoran almost restored parity shortly before half-time, but McLaughlin’s curling effort cleared the crossbar.

Kim Turner’s side found their equaliser in the 62nd minute. Caldwell turned smartly inside the penalty area before driving a powerful finish beyond Higgins.

The Glens went close to completing the turnaround when Caldwell met Demi Vance’s corner, but her deflected header flew narrowly wide of the post.

Cliftonville regained the lead with 10 minutes remaining when Caitlin McGuinness won possession inside the Glentoran half and kept her composure to finish past Scott.

The Glens continued to push during the closing stages, but the visitors held firm to secure the three points and move eight clear at the top of the table.

Glentoran still have two fixtures to play before the league splits, while Cliftonville have one remaining pre-split game against Derry City.

Glentoran Women 1 – 2 Cliftonville Women 

Starting XI: Scott, Loughran, Caldwell, Foy (captain), Kerr, Vance, McLaughlin, G Conway, Moore, McKearney, Crompton.

Substitutes: McMaster, Rogan, Wilson, Weir, Bailie, Timoney, McCarron.