Glentoran Women were crowned Sports Direct Women’s Premiership champions after a 1–0 victory in a dramatic final day decider at the Blanchflower Stadium.

Northern Ireland international Nadene Caldwell scored the decisive goal in the 66th minute to secure the club’s first league title since 2023 and spark jubilant celebrations in front of a superb home crowd.

The visitors arrived unbeaten in 2024 and chasing a domestic treble, knowing only a win would be enough to take the trophy away. Glentoran, needing just a point, ensured there was no slip up on the biggest night of the season.

The Glens started strongly and almost took the lead early on when Emily Wilson raced through on goal but was denied by the goalkeeper.

Moments later Kascie Weir created another good opening, but the chance was blocked inside the area. At the other end, Ashleigh McKinnon produced a confident save to keep the scores level.

The first half remained tight, with both sides battling for control and few clear chances created.

After the restart, the visitors enjoyed a spell of pressure but Glentoran stood firm. Captain Jess Foy made a crucial defensive clearance and Aimee Kerr produced a brilliant goal line stop, before McKinnon again came up big between the posts.

Then came the breakthrough. In the 66th minute, a pinpoint corner from Demi Vance was met by Caldwell, whose powerful header took a slight deflection and found the net. The Blanchflower Stadium erupted.

The visitors pushed for a late equaliser, but Glentoran showed impressive composure and resilience. McKinnon made two superb saves in the closing stages and Foy marshalled the back line brilliantly as the home side saw the game out.

At full time, captain Jess Foy lifted the trophy in front of the home support to crown a memorable night for the club as Glentoran reclaimed the Women’s Premiership title.

Glentoran Women 1–0 Cliftonville Ladies

Pictures by Johnny Caldwell