Cliftonville 2 – 1 Warrenpoint Town
International Club Friendly – 22 July 2026

Match Overview

Cliftonville edged out Warrenpoint Town 2-1 in a tightly contested pre-season friendly played under the lights on 22 July 2026. The Reds showed greater sharpness in the final third to secure a morale-boosting victory ahead of the upcoming domestic campaign.

Key Moments

The home side broke the deadlock midway through the first half when a well-worked move down the right flank ended with a composed finish from close range. Warrenpoint responded positively after the interval, leveling the score with a powerful header from a corner in the 58th minute.

Cliftonville regained the lead just ten minutes later, capitalising on a defensive lapse to slot home what proved to be the winner. The visitors pushed for an equaliser in the closing stages but the Reds’ backline held firm.

Tactical Observations

Cliftonville’s manager experimented with a 4-3-3 formation, giving valuable minutes to several trialists and academy prospects. Warrenpoint, meanwhile, showed good organisation and pressed aggressively, but lacked a cutting edge in the final third.

What It Means

For Cliftonville, this result builds momentum as they fine‑tune their squad. Warrenpoint will take positives from a resilient performance, particularly their second‑half display.