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Irish Premiership Title Race Goes Down to the Wire: Three Teams, One Trophy

Sports
April 23, 2026 · 1:23 PM
Irish Premiership Title Race Goes Down to the Wire: Three Teams, One Trophy

The Irish Premiership title will be decided on the final day of the season, with Larne, Coleraine, and Glentoran all in contention for the Gibson Cup.

Larne currently hold a three-point lead at the top of the table and need just a point from their home match against Dungannon Swifts on Saturday to secure the title. However, if they slip up, either Coleraine or Glentoran could capitalise when they face each other on the north coast.

Larne in pole position

Gary Haveron's side are chasing a third Irish Premiership title in four years. A goalless draw at Glentoran on Friday moved them closer to the trophy, and they are strong favourites to get the job done at Inver Park against a Dungannon side that have lost eight of their last nine games. Dungannon also have the Irish Cup final against Coleraine the following week, and manager Rodney McAree has indicated he may rest some players.

"We always want it in our own hands," said Haveron. "Dungannon are a very good side and will pose a real problem, but we'll be prepared."

Glentoran's 17-year wait

Glentoran's hopes were dented by Friday's draw with Larne, a missed opportunity to go top. They have not won the title since 2009, and this season felt like a huge chance. They now need to beat Coleraine and hope Larne lose to Dungannon.

Coleraine's late surge

Coleraine have climbed into second place and can win the title if they beat Glentoran and Larne fail to win against Dungannon. A win for Coleraine would also secure second place and an automatic European spot if Larne draw.

The decisive matches kick off at 17:30 BST on Saturday, with live coverage on BBC iPlayer, BBC Sounds, and the BBC Sport app.