Strabane Athletic Shocks Loughgall with 3-2 Cup Victory

BREAKING: Strabane Athletic has achieved a stunning victory in the Northern Ireland League Cup, defeating Loughgall 3-2 at Lakeview Park on October 7, 2025. This marks a remarkable debut for the Tyrone club in the prestigious tournament.

The match was a rollercoaster of emotions, with Strabane taking an early lead thanks to Sean McCallion’s goal. However, Loughgall responded swiftly, with Darragh Stewart finding the net early in the second half to level the score. Strabane regained the advantage through Oisin Duffy, only for Kirk McLaughlin to equalize once more, setting the stage for a nail-biting finish.

With the clock ticking down in extra time, the tension was palpable. Just moments before the final whistle, Cathal McShane delivered the decisive blow, securing Strabane’s place in the next round and causing jubilation among their supporters.

This victory stands out against other results in the tournament, where teams like Dergview suffered a staggering 7-3 defeat to Larne, and Limavady United fell 3-1 to Newington. The overall atmosphere in the cup has been charged, with teams like Institute losing 1-0 to premiership leaders Glentoran.

This thrilling win not only highlights Strabane Athletic’s potential but also adds to the excitement of the ongoing tournament. Fans are encouraged to celebrate this unexpected triumph on social media, sharing their enthusiasm with the hashtag #BetMcLeanCup.

As the tournament progresses, all eyes will be on Strabane Athletic to see how they build on this significant victory. Will they continue to defy expectations, or will the pressure mount in the upcoming rounds? Stay tuned for the latest updates as the Northern Ireland League Cup unfolds.