North Down Edge Bangor in Shootout to Reach Irish Challenge Cup Next Round

In a tense and tightly contested cup match, North Down claimed victory over Bangor after a goalless draw and a dramatic run-in shootout.

Bangor enjoyed plenty of attacking play throughout the match, but North Down’s defence stood strong; Rachael Murphy, Tara Leckie, Anna Crooks and Jenna Pliauga, were rock-solid at the back, reading the game well and breaking up Bangor’s advances. Goalkeeper Kathryn McGregor was in superb form, pulling off several brilliant saves to keep her side in contention.

North Down’s midfield worked tirelessly to support both ends of the pitch, showing great determination and teamwork. The forwards created several promising chances, including one from a well-struck free ball by Andrea Mockford, which found Caitlin Taylor and was almost deflected home by Regan Armstrong.

With the score locked at 0–0 after full time, the game went to run-ins. Rachael Murphy and Connie Magee both showed excellent composure to convert their run ins to goals, while Kathryn McGregor’s heroics in the net ensured a 2–1 win for North Down in the shootout.

A solid team performance sees North Down progress to the next round of the Irish Challenge Cup in February 2026.