Larne Football Club have made history, becoming the first team from outside Belfast to win the Irish League title in 18 years. On Friday night, a 2-0 win over Crusaders at Seaview secured the east Antrim club their first championship in their 134-year history. Goals from Andy Ryan and Lee Bonis in either half gave them an unassailable 12-point lead at the top of the table.
The success of Larne is largely due to significant investment from owner Kenny Bruce and the vision of manager Tiernan Lynch. Bruce has been backing his hometown club since 2018, while Lynch has helped to introduce a full-time model. This has seen the team’s fortunes transformed in recent years, with Larne going 15 games unbeaten in the Premiership, comprising 11 wins and four draws. Their defensive solidity has been key, with goalkeeper Rohan Ferguson not conceding in 19 of his last 24 games and the team shipping just 18 goals in 36 league games.
The Invermen’s success wrenches the Irish Premiership crown from nearest challengers Linfield, who had lifted the Gibson Cup in each of the last four seasons. However, their failure to pick up sufficient points against other teams in the top half of the table was a crucial factor in their inability to stop Larne securing their historic maiden triumph.
The champions will now look forward to representing the Irish League in the Champions League qualifying rounds this summer. However, before that, they will have plenty of time to celebrate their first title in 134 years. Larne’s victory is a remarkable achievement and a testament to the hard work and dedication of everyone involved at the club.