Glentoran's early free‑kick sets tone as Derry City fights back

Glentoran kept their unbeaten run alive with a 3‑1 win over Derry City at the Blanchflower Stadium, moving back to the Premiership summit after Aimee Kerr’s eight‑minute free‑kick opened the scoring and captain Jess Foy doubled the lead before half‑time.

Aimee Kerr delivered a well‑taken free‑kick after eight minutes, putting Glentoran ahead at the Blanchflower Stadium. The set‑piece curled past the Derry City defence, giving the home side the first goal of the match.

Captain Jess Foy extended the lead just before the half‑time whistle, doubling Glentoran’s advantage. Her strike reinforced the early dominance and left Derry City chasing the game at the break.

Mia Moore struck again within a minute of the restart, firing the ball into the top corner. The goal cemented a three‑goal cushion for the defending champions.

Derry City managed to pull a goal back on the hour mark, narrowing the deficit. Despite the reduction, they were unable to mount a sustained second‑half comeback.

Kelly Crompton said, "It was a battle. I think any team as big as Derry, they always make a good battle. However, I think we stuck to our game plan and did what we had to do and I am happy with the result." Crompton’s comments reflected satisfaction with the tactical discipline displayed.

The contrast between Glentoran’s early control and Derry City’s late resistance underlines the champions’ ability to execute their game plan, while the visitors must regroup ahead of their next league challenge.