Crusaders open cup weekend with win, as Larne edge Blues in shoot-out drama

Philip Lowry netted twice to help holders Crusaders move into the next round of the Irish Cup with a 2-1 win over Premier Intermediate side Bangor on Friday night.

Lowry gave Stephen Baxter's side the lead on 28 minutes, with great control from Jude Winchester's ball before a smart finish.

He doubled the lead two minutes after half-time with another assured finish.

Bangor rallied and pulled one back 23 minutes from time, Ben Arthurs with the strike.

But the Shore Road men held on to ensure theirs is the first name into the hat for the last-eight draw.

Harland and Wolff Welders sprang the shock of the round on Saturday with a 1-0 win at Glenavon - Oisin Barr with the winner at Mourneview Park for the Championship side.

Two ties went to a penalty shoot-out.

Larne and Linfield ended 1-1 after extra-time - Larne edging the shoot-out 4-3 - Lee Bonis scored the decisive kick for the Invermen.

Meanwhile Cliftonville and Coleraine were locked at 2-2 after 120 minutes - but it was Cliftonville who progressed 3-1 in the shoot-out.

Jay Donnelly netted twice as Glentoran were 3-0 winners at Portadown.

Ballymena United eased past Newington 4-1 at the Showgrounds, with Ballyclare Comrades 1-0 winners at Institute.

Dungannon Swifts held off the challenge of Knockbreda 2-1.