Crues off to winning start in bid to retain Co Antrim Shield

Wins for other Danske Bank Premiership sides plus round-up of Mid-Ulster Cup games

Cliftonville v Lisburn Distillery
Author: Nigel GouldPublished 19th Sep 2018

Holders, Crusaders, began their defence of their Co Antrim Shield title with a 2-1 win over Championship team Knockbreda.

They will now face Cliftonville (main picture) in the next round after Barry Gray’s side got back to winning ways with a 5-0 hammering over Lisburn Distillery.

Curtis Allen netted twice as Glentoran had to come from behind to beat Queen’s University 2-1.

Linfield had a close call at home to Championship strugglers, PSNI – but eventually ran out 2-1 winners.

And in the battle of the Championship sides Larne won 2-0 at Carrick Rangers.

Elsewhere, Ards beat Dundela 1-0.

And there is one game tonight with Ballymena United taking on Harland and Wolff Welders at Dixon Park, Ballyclare (k.o. 7.45)

Meanwhile, in the Mid-Ulster Cup Warrenpoint beat Dollingstown 3-1; Dungannon Swifts saw off Intermediate A side Hanover 2-0 while Glenavon won 2-0 at home to Windmill Stars and Newry City beat Rathfriland 3-2.

Championship side, Loughgall, needed extra time before beating Fivemiletown 4-2 while in the all-Premier Intermediate tie at the Annagh, Banbridge Town thumped Annagh United 5-1.

The Town now face a trip to Shamrock Park in the next round to play Portadown who beat Valley Rangers 2-0.

Finally, Armagh City are out after losing 5-4 on penalties to Banbridge Rangers.