Carrick Rangers End 33-Year Wait with County Antrim Shield Victory

Historic Triumph for Carrick Rangers

Carrick Rangers have won the County Antrim Shield for the first time in 33 years after a 4-2 shootout win over Cliftonville after a 1-1 draw at Seaview. This remarkable victory marks a significant milestone for the east Antrim club, bringing silverware back to Taylors Avenue and ending a long drought that had seen the team absent from major finals in recent years.

Match Details and Key Moments

Ryan Curran’s strike in the third minute put Cliftonville in front but Adam Lecky equalised with 10 minutes remaining to send the game to a shootout. The dramatic late equaliser kept Carrick’s hopes alive and forced the match into a penalty shootout, where nerves and precision would ultimately decide the winner.

Aidan Steele scored the winning penalty after Curran and Liam McStravick missed in the shootout. Curran missed the opening kick for Cliftonville while Callach, Luke McCullough and Danny Gibson put Carrick on the brink of the trophy. The composure shown by Carrick’s penalty takers proved decisive in securing the historic victory.

Significance for the Club

Carrick Rangers manager Stephen Baxter said it would “mean the world” to win Tuesday’s County Antrim Shield final against Cliftonville. The Taylors Avenue side are aiming to secure their first silverware in 31 years during Baxter’s second season in charge. Despite being considered underdogs by many, Carrick’s determination and preparation paid dividends on the night.

Carrick have beaten holders Glentoran and rivals Larne on their way to the decider. This impressive run through the competition demonstrated the team’s quality and resilience, setting the stage for their ultimate triumph. It is the second time Carrick have won the County Antrim Shield in their history.

Looking Ahead

This victory represents more than just a trophy for Carrick Rangers—it signals a potential turning point for the club. The confidence gained from this success could prove invaluable as they continue their campaign in the Irish Premiership. For the players, management, and supporters, this historic night at Seaview will be remembered for generations as the moment Carrick Rangers returned to winning ways.