Ballyclare Comrades Ladies stand between holders Glentoran Women and a place in the semi-finals of this season’s Electric Ireland Women’s Challenge Cup.
The Glens have won the past three Women’s Irish Cup finals – Covid meant the 2020 decider was not played – and they are aiming for four in a row in 2022.
But the reigning NIFL Danske Bank Women’s Premiership champions, who are currently lying second in the league, will have to get past the NIWFA Division 1 side away from home next month if they want to stay on course to lift the Electric Ireland Women’s Challenge Cup once again.
The tie of the round in this season’s quarter-finals – the draw was made earlier today – pits Premiership leaders Cliftonville Ladies against Linfield Ladies, who are currently third in the top flight. The game between the Reds, who will have home advantage, and the Blues will likely be staged at Solitude.
Also still flying the flag for NIWFA in the competition are Championship side St James’ Swifts Ladies. They have been drawn to face Premiership outfit Sion Swifts Ladies at home in the last eight.
The remaining tie is also a Premiership v Championship encounter. Crusaders Strikers from the top flight will be taking on Larne Ladies at home for a place in the semi-finals.
All four ties are due to be played on Friday 16 September (7.30pm starts).
Today’s quarter-final draw was conducted by Elaine Junk, chair of the Irish FA Women’s Challenge Cup Committee, and Electric Ireland’s Anne Smyth.
