Preston Lions Women 1–2 Cliftonville Hill (W): Cup Upset in the Victorian Women's Cup

Date: 3 June 2026 | Kick-off: 17:30 AEST

Cliftonville Hill produced a spirited comeback to defeat Preston Lions Women 2–1 in the Australia Victorian Women's Cup, advancing to the next round of the competition. The result was a surprise given Preston's strong domestic form, but the visitors showed grit and quality to turn the tie around.

Match Overview

Preston Lions started brightly and took an early lead through a well-taken goal from their star forward. The Lions dominated the opening 20 minutes, pressing high and creating several half-chances. However, Cliftonville Hill gradually settled and began to assert themselves in midfield.

The equaliser came just before half-time when a long-range effort deflected off a defender and looped over the Preston goalkeeper. The goal visibly boosted the away side's confidence, and they came out after the break with renewed energy.

Cliftonville Hill's winner arrived midway through the second half. A swift counter-attack caught Preston's backline out of position, and a clinical finish from inside the box sealed the victory. Preston threw bodies forward in the dying minutes but could not find an equaliser.

Tactical Story

• Preston Lions Women employed a high-pressing 4-3-3, which worked well early but left them vulnerable to counters once the press was bypassed.
• Cliftonville Hill (W) used a compact 4-4-2 mid-block, absorbing pressure and breaking quickly through their pacey wingers.
• The match was decided by transitional moments, with Cliftonville proving more clinical in the final third.

Standout Players

Cliftonville Hill's number 10 was instrumental, providing the assist for the equaliser and scoring the winner. For Preston, the centre-forward worked tirelessly but lacked support in the second half.

Cup Context

The Victorian Women's Cup is a knockout competition featuring teams from across the state, including top-tier clubs from the NPL Victoria Women's and regional sides. This result is a notable upset and will give Cliftonville Hill confidence as they aim for a deep run. Preston Lions Women, meanwhile, will regret their inability to hold onto the lead and will now focus on their league campaign.

The draw for the next round is expected later this week, with Cliftonville Hill awaiting their next opponent.