Cliftonville win to extend lead at top to eight

Cliftonville defeated Lisburn Rangers 3-1 at Solitude on Friday to strengthen their position at the top of the Women's Premiership and move a step closer to securing the title. The Reds' victory extended their lead at the league summit to eight points over nearest challengers Glentoran, who play Linfield at the Blanchflower Stadium on Sunday afternoon (16:30 BST). Cliftonville will be crowned champions if the Glens fail to beat their Belfast rivals in that encounter. Cliftonville were two goals to the good inside 35 minutes as Teegan Lynch found the net from the penalty spot and Caitlin McGuinness fired home a superb strike from the edge of the box. Louise McDaniel extended the home side's advantage in the 76th minute, with Abbie Smyth grabbing a consolation in the final minute. At Seaview, Crusaders Strikers edged out Larne Women 3-2 in an entertaining game. Emilee Leacock put the Strikers ahead on 34 minutes, but Chloe Doak levelled immediately after the break. Jessica Rea put the hosts ahead again, before Rachel Dennison restored parity again. Mia Reilly struck eight minutes from time for what turned out to be the decisive goal. There was another six-goal thriller at Limavady Showgrounds where Derry City and Lisburn Ladies drew 3-3. Chelsea Sheerin and Chelsea Scott put Derry two in front, then Jessica Hall pulled one back. Scott was on target again just before the break, but Lisburn fought back through Stacey Murdough and Sidra Younes Alsaidi to salvage a point.