Hannah Gibson fires Swifts to League Cup glory

Northern Ireland Women's Football Association (NIWFA) Championship League Cup final

Sion Swifts Ladies....4

St James Swifts Ladies....3

THE NIWFA Championship League Cup final served up a thriller with Sion Swifts edging St James in a seven-goal spectacle that had everything - drama, quality and a stunning individual performance from young Sion star, Hannah Gibson.

It was St James who struck first on 17 minutes with a long-range free-kick looping over Kerry McCready in goal.

But Sion hit back just before the break, with Gibson producing a goal of the season contender on 33 minutes cutting inside and rifling a sensational left-foot strike into the top corner.

At half-time the teams were tied 1-1.

The second half picked up right where it left off.

Gibson put Sion in front on 53 minutes with a powerful effort across the keeper into the bottom corner.

St James responded almost immediately, leveling at 2-2 with another long-range strike that deceived McCready.

But Gibson wasn’t done. Just three minutes later, she was slipped through by Milligan and coolly slotted home to complete her hat-trick and restore Sion’s lead at 3–2.

Once again, St James refused to lie down, capitalizing on a defensive mix-up to equalize 3-3 at the back post.

As the clock ticked towards penalties, it seemed nothing could separate the sides.

Then, in the dying moments, Gibson stepped up yet again, sealing the cup final with her fourth goal of the night - a true match-winning display from the youngster.

Final score: Sion Swifts 4-3 St James

A club spokesperson said: "A special mention must go to the support from our supporters they were really unbelievable and the 12th man that the girls needed.

"The Player of the Match was Hannah Gibson scoring four goals in the final and the winning goal yet again.

"Thanks to match day sponsor, DamianKirk The Mortgage Shop and match ball sponsor, The Thirsty Filly."