NIFL CHAMPIONSHIP ROUND UP WE 08/08/26

Late Drama, Big Wins and a Hat-Trick Hero: Championship Action Delivers

The goals kept flowing, and the drama went right to the wire as another thrilling round of fixtures served up late heartbreak, comebacks and standout performances across the board.

At Holm Park, it was stoppage-time agony for the hosts as Armagh City were held 1–1 by Queen’s University. Andrew Spain’s first-half strike had City in control, but after Cian Wilson saw a penalty saved, the Students punished them deep into added time—Dan Mairs rising to head home a dramatic equaliser.

There was late drama elsewhere too, as Newry City edged Ballinamallard United 1–0. After the hosts twice struck the woodwork, they were made to pay when Aaron Donnelly pounced in the 79th minute to snatch it for Newry.

Wilgar Park saw goals and momentum swings as Dundela drew 2–2 with Moyola Park. Kenzie Beattie put the Duns ahead, but Moyola hit back with two quickfire goals through Callum McCay and Joshua Carson. Dundela refused to lie down, though, with Oisin Barr levelling late to rescue a point.

At Mourneview Park, Ards powered to a 3–1 win over Glenavon with a clinical display. Connor Maxwell opened the scoring before Eamon Scannell doubled the lead. Jamie Browne added a third late on, and although Ryan Waide grabbed a stoppage-time consolation, Ards were dominant.

HW Welders made a statement with a 3–0 victory over Warrenpoint Town, taking control through Ewan McCoubrey before Joshua Kee and Jack Reilly wrapped up an emphatic win with second-half strikes.

The standout performance of the day came at Newington, where Newington thrashed Annagh United 4–1, inspired by a sensational Jay Donnelly hat-trick. He struck twice early on and completed his treble in style after Aidan Kelly had restored the two-goal cushion, with Aaron Rogers briefly giving Annagh hope.

And at Iveagh Park, Loughgall came from behind to beat Rathfriland Rangers 3–1 in devastating fashion. Stephen Teggart had given the hosts an early lead, but an own goal turned the tide before Kirk McLaughlin (penalty) and Ben Murdock completed a ruthless turnaround in a ten-minute blitz.

Late goals, big statements and attacking football everywhere—this season is already hitting full throttle.