believed to have been started deliberately caused extensive damage to a property in the Dunclug Gardens area of Ballymena in the early hours of Sunday morning Emergency services were alerted shortly before 4:30am on Sunday Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service (NIFRS) crews found the residential property engulfed in flames Firefighters from Ballymena and Antrim swiftly tackled the blaze using breathing apparatus and hose reel jets “Crews extinguished the fire using breathing apparatus and hose reel jets They also prevented the fire from spreading to an adjacent property Detective Constable Harrington confirmed that police and fire crews attended the scene and that the incident is being treated as arson “We received a report shortly before 4:30am on Sunday morning that smoke was coming from a residential property in the Dunclug Gardens area On arrival the property was well alight with extensive damage,” said DC Harrington “Officers attended alongside colleagues from Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue DC Harrington revealed that: “A further report has established that windows were smashed at this property at approximately 11:00pm on Saturday the property was unoccupied at the time of the incident nobody was in the property at this time and no one was injured during this attack,” added the detective and detectives are urging anyone who may have witnessed suspicious activity in the area or who may hold relevant video footage to come forward “Enquiries are ongoing and the incident is being treated as deliberate ignition We are appealing to anyone with any information or to anyone with CCTV dashcam or other video footage that could assist the investigation to get in touch on 101 quoting reference number 280 of 04/05/25,” said DC Harrington Information can also be submitted online via the Police Service of Northern Ireland’s non-emergency reporting form, or anonymously through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or crimestoppers-uk.org The swift response by fire crews ensured that the blaze was contained and prevented from spreading to adjacent homes avoiding potential further damage and injury WhatsApp: 07311 700 250 Privacy Policy The scene of an arson attack in Dunclug Gardens NIFRS at scene of fire in Dunclug Gardens area of Ballymena Staff reporterSun 4 May 2025 at 15:43Detectives are appealing for information following reports of an arson and windows smashed at a property in Ballymena on Sunday PSNI Detective Constable Harrington said: "We received a report shortly before 4:30am on Sunday that smoke was coming from a residential property in the Dunclug Gardens area the property was well alight with extensive damage "Officers attended alongside colleagues from Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue "A further report has established that windows were smashed at this property at approximately 11pm on Saturday Watch: Riot police deal with disorder following Irish Cup final nobody was in the property at this time and no one was injured during this attack "Enquiries are ongoing and the incident is being treated as deliberate ignition.” DC Harrington further said: "We are appealing to anyone with any information or to anyone with CCTV dashcam or other video footage that could assist the investigation to get in touch on 101 quoting reference number 280 of 04/05/25." Receive today's headlines directly to your inbox every morning and evening Please check your inbox to verify your details hosting bus and train services within a bland and functional atmosphere which was presumably the intention of its designers when it opened eight months ago at a cost of £350m I have passed through it on a number of occasions in light of all the angry statements circulating in recent weeks I took the opportunity to have a slightly more detailed look around while heading to an engagement in Dublin and it remains baffling that Ireland’s largest integrated transport facility could be launched without proper arrangements for arriving and departing taxis as well as the basic amenity of a cycle rack The approach on foot from the main thoroughfare of Great Victoria Street still necessitates negotiating a sprawling building site before reaching a concourse which is largely devoid of internal characteristics which would identify it with the city of Belfast There was a small but well-presented photographic exhibition in one corner featuring present day transport staff cheerfully going about their duties while the slightly puzzling but inoffensive imagery on an exterior wall seemed like something of an afterthought A strong case remains for the provision of striking and appropriate public artwork although it is perhaps understandable that the authorities have so far avoided any related decisions which might attract further political commentary What has all the appearance of a contrived argument has surrounded the belated scheme for dual language signage of the kind which is commonplace in Scotland and Wales but apparently regarded as a threat to the union by some in Belfast It was noticeable that the initial Tannoy greeting on the Enterprise in Grand Central Station was in Irish and accidently or otherwise the opposite policy was followed in Connolly Station on the return journey Read more: DUP’s incoherent war on Irish at Grand Central Station is a petty distraction from the real battles Stormont should be fighting against ill health, poverty and deprivation - The Irish News view My trip to Dublin was unremarkable and precisely on time throughout giving me the opportunity to reflect on other journeys I made along part of the same line while working in Co Antrim more than four decades ago The 4.55pm from Ballymena passed through Antrim town and Lisburn on its way to Belfast back then although it follows a different route these days and I was on nodding terms with the other daily commuters on what was a small two-carriage train separated into smoking and non-smoking sections January 17 1980 turned out to be an unexpectedly quiet day in our weekly newspaper office with a couple of possible stories falling through with our latest edition already in the shops I should go home an hour earlier than normal While I returned to the city without incident two IRA members got on the next train at Dunmurry with the ludicrously risk-filled plan of leaving a bomb attached to a timer and a petrol can under a seat disembarking at the next stop and telephoning in a warning to The Samaritans placed between loyalist Sandy Row and the nationalist Grosvenor Road could in some ways come to symbolise our wider transformation but only if we concentrate on extending respect to all sections of our divided society The device exploded as soon as they attempted to prime it with devastating consequences for everyone present as what was effectively a huge fireball was blasted along the non-smoking section where I usually sat Three people were killed instantly - one of the IRA members and a 35-year-old Nigerian born accountant Max Olorunda - with five others in the carriage A friend who had been passing through Ballymena station subsequently told me that the 4.55 was already pulling out when Mr Olorunda ran in a few seconds late but he managed to attract the attention of the staff who stopped it further along the platform allowing him to jump on after he gratefully shook hands with the guard a conductor on the same train whispered that he had given my description as a regular passenger to police who were attempting to identify the charred remains of those caught in the inferno I often think about the dead on the 4.55 from Ballymena as well as considering all the others who lost their lives in the course of the Troubles of the last 50 years and beyond could in some ways come to symbolise our wider transformation since then Letters to the Editor are invited on any subject. They should be authenticated with a full name, address and a daytime telephone number. Pen names are not allowed. Facebook pageTwitter feedRSS feed@2025 The Irish News Ltd peacefully at hospital after a short illness a devoted Nana and Great Nana and dear sister of Lydia McCallan Funeral service in Killymurris Presbyterian Church Hall on Wednesday 7th May at 2pm interment afterwards at adjoining burying ground Family and friends welcome to call at the home of her son and daughter-in-law 2 Woodcroft Avenue Ballymena on Monday and Tuesday from 5pm to 9pm donations in lieu if desired may be sent to James Henry Funeral Services Ballymena BT43 6EE for Killymurris Presbyterian Church Repair Fund Lovingly remembered by her family and family circle Share this sad news with friends and loved ones Visit Website [email protected] Link Win HappyPremiumSearch Rayocool fmlocalnewsPSNI treat fire in Ballymena as arsonNo one was in the property at the time and nobody was injured Police are treating a fire in Ballymena as arson The Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue service attended the blaze at a property in the Dunclug Gardens area in the early hours of this morning No one was in the property at the time and nobody was injured Detective Constable Harrington said: "We received a report shortly before 4:30am on Sunday morning that smoke was coming from a residential property in the Dunclug Gardens area On arrival the property was well alight with extensive damage "Officers attended alongside colleagues from Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue "A further report has established that windows were smashed at this property at approximately 11:00pm on Saturday "Enquiries are ongoing and the incident is being treated as deliberate ignition dashcam or other video footage that could assist the investigation to get in touch on 101 quoting reference number 280 of 04/05/25." you can submit a report online using the non-emergency reporting form via www.psni.police.uk/makeareport/ You can also contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at http://crimestoppers-uk.org/ Company number 01176085; Bauer Radio Limited Company number: 1394141Registered office: Media House Peterborough PE2 6EA and H Bauer Publishing Company number: LP003328; Registered office: The Lantern London NW1 2PL All registered in England and Wales VAT no 918 5617 01H Bauer Publishing are authorised and regulated for credit broking by the FCA (Ref No: 845898) Firefighters from Ballymena and Antrim successfully tackled a flat fire in the Dunclug area of Ballymena during the early hours of Sunday morning Emergency services were alerted to the incident at 4;30am with crews quickly arriving at the scene to confront the blaze According to the Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service (NIFRS) fire personnel deployed breathing apparatus and hose reel jets to extinguish the fire and prevent it from spreading further Thanks to the swift response and coordinated efforts of the fire crews the fire was contained and did not spread to a neighbouring property No injuries were reported in connection with the incident No one was injured at the incident,” the NIFRS spokesperson added It is understood NIFRS are treating the early morning blaze as being deliberately caused A former Co Antrim care home manager has denied to an inquest having a “special arrangement” to make a dementia patient look presentable when his family informed staff they were coming to visit him the inquest earlier heard if visits were unannounced Ballymoney pensioner William Victor McLean — who was a resident of Rose Court in Ballymena before his death in 2022 — would appear “unkempt and scruffy” Mr Cherry served on Ballymena Borough Council and more recently as a member of Mid and East Antrim Borough Council until he retired in April 2023. He served as deputy mayor of Ballymena from 2011-12 and was also a past president of the Ballymena Chamber of Commerce during the Covid crisis. A farmer, he was also a board member of the Balmoral Show and was awarded an MBE for services to agriculture. South Antrim MP Robin Swann said his party colleague “always provided sage and measured advice to anyone who sought it”. “In his contributions to the agricultural community and especially the potato industry, he was often ahead of his time. He will be greatly missed by many, a gentleman who was widely respected.” Mid and East Antrim Mayor William McCaughey said: “I had known Robin for many years both in his role as an elected member of council, and in his role as president of the Ballymena Chamber of Commerce. “Robin was a gentleman and extremely well respected by all at Mid and East Antrim Borough Council.” Robin Cherry died last Saturday after a short illness. He is survived by his wife Adeline, son Adrian, daughter Karen, and family circle. promising jobs and vibrancyLove BallymenaApr 293 min readBallymena town centre may soon enjoy a fresh injection of life with a proposed new restaurant development on Wellington Street according to a planning application recently submitted to Mid and East Antrim Borough Council brought forward by Jonathan Wallace of Wallace’s Ballymena Ltd outlines plans to transform the currently unused first floor of the retailer’s premises at 35–37 Wellington Street into a contemporary dining venue the restaurant would create around 20 new jobs and reactivate a long-dormant section of the town’s commercial landscape a mainstay of Ballymena’s retail sector since the late 1940s has in recent years expanded its footprint by acquiring and integrating the Wellington Street property with its original store on Church Street was opened in the 1980s as a three-storey shopping centre complete with escalators and multiple retail units its upper floors have remained closed to the public for decades The new plans mark the first significant step towards restoring public access to the first floor signalling a shift towards mixed-use development in the town centre The escaltors in the original Wellington Court The proposal dovetails with the objectives outlined in the Mid and East Antrim Local Development Plan (LDP) 2030 which aims to reinvigorate town centres by encouraging diverse uses beyond traditional retail Central to the LDP’s vision is the transformation of town centres into vibrant hubs that accommodate retail The introduction of a leisure-oriented venue such as a restaurant is expected to complement existing services while contributing to the overall economic resilience of Ballymena’s core reference has been made to the findings of the 2018 Mid and East Antrim Retail and Commercial Leisure Need and Capacity Study the study emphasises the growing role of the food and beverage sector in attracting footfall to town centres It highlights a shift in consumer behaviour with diners increasingly seeking “grazing” experiences that blend eating and shopping The study recommends the expansion of leisure offerings as a key strategy in reducing reliance on retail alone and enhancing the evening economy The location of the proposed restaurant positions it advantageously to capitalise on this trend The site offers convenient access to several parking and public transport options including the adjacent Tower Centre multi-storey car park and nearby Church Street and Castle Street while deliveries are set to be handled through existing loading bays to minimise disruption to traffic flow The proposal also demonstrates a strong commitment to accessibility and regulatory compliance The building will adhere to current Northern Ireland Building Regulations and the Disability Discrimination Act (DDA) with access to the first floor provided via escalator and the internal layout has been designed to accommodate a wide range of mobility needs Environmental impacts have been considered in the planning process Layde Consulting has prepared a separate noise and odour assessment to address any concerns from nearby properties the design makes efficient use of existing infrastructure including foul waste connections and toilet facilities already in place from previous retail and food uses thereby avoiding unnecessary strain on NI Water’s treatment systems the restaurant is expected to attract not only Ballymena residents but also visitors from surrounding areas offering a new destination for dining and socialising The creation of 20 new jobs would represent a welcome economic boost and further consolidate Wallace’s position as a significant local employer The initiative aligns with the broader aims of the Ballymena Town Centre Investment Plan and Town Centre Strategy both of which advocate for a more sustainable The project is being viewed as a potential catalyst for further regeneration within the town centre As the application undergoes review by council planners local residents and businesses will be keeping a keen eye on developments the proposal offers a promising glimpse of Ballymena’s future—one where heritage and community meet to forge a revitalised town centre All Saints Boxing Club member and Roy McClean A Ballymena boxing club is leading the charge against isolation and poor health with a community programme that’s making a real difference to the lives of local residents aged over 40 based near the Dunclug and Doury Road estates recently delivered its popular Fighting Fit course thanks to a £3,735 Community Involvement Grant from the Housing Executive The 12-week initiative focused on improving physical fitness and mental wellbeing especially for those living with complex needs and refreshments—ensuring that the programme remained free and accessible to all All Saints coach Brendan Dunne highlighted the positive impact the programme has had on participants and the wider community “This programme equips people over 40 with the tools to live happier and healthier lives We were delighted to see even more people with complex needs take part this year “Participating created a sense of belonging and achievement because they no longer felt isolated and excluded from clubs and sporting activities.” “Participants benefited from the guidance of the club’s experienced coaching staff compassionate support throughout the course.” skilled and experienced coaches provided the highest level of support and their input was key to the success of the programme,” he added At a time when many households are feeling the financial strain Brendan believes that schemes like Fighting Fit offer more than just physical exercise “With the cost-of-living crisis we realise that courses like this are a lifeline to adults living on a tight budget “By getting involved in healthy schemes like this adults can inspire the younger generations to get active in their community and steer clear of negative influences We are extremely grateful to the Housing Executive for their support.” All Saints Boxing Club member and Brendan Dunne Housing Executive Assistant Manager for Mid and East Antrim praised the club and other community groups for their dedication and the tangible benefits they deliver year-round “We are very fortunate to work with many amazing community groups and volunteers who are the backbone of our communities compassion and dedication throughout the year “Meticulously planned projects help make a real difference to so many lives and we would like all groups to know how much we appreciate what they do All Saints Boxing Club is one such group and it is a pleasure to support them.” The Fighting Fit programme continues to demonstrate the power of grassroots sport in building stronger it is not only an opportunity to improve fitness To find out more about support available in your community, visit nihe.gov.uk Mid and East Antrim councillors have approved a tree and woodland strategy which urges maintenance of current stock which will take into account tree management tree safety on council-owned property and planting were agreed at a meeting of the borough council’s Neighbourhoods and Communities Committee The strategy was developed after a leading woodland consultancy was commissioned to work with the council’s parks team It has been funded by almost £300,000 by The Emergency Tree Fund which supports local authorities to manage tree cover in the borough The local authority manages three “natural areas” – Carnfunnock Country Park The borough is also home to 40 Areas of Special Scientific Interest (ASSI) Carrick Castle Alliance Councillor Lauren Gray described the initiative as “really exciting” adding that Mid and East Antrim is “one of the first councils moving in this direction” She urged ancient trees to be “safeguarded” across the borough Larne Lough party colleague Cllr Maeve Donnelly requested more fruit trees on council land An orchard has been planted at Larne Town Park Carrick Castle DUP Alderman Billy Ashe MBE described the draft strategy as “a sterling piece of work” he said that there should be a “focus” where there are “flooding problems” “We need to keep pushing on that front to keep alleviating the same areas susceptible to flooding,” he stressed Ald Ashe pointed out that “substantial numbers of trees” were felled by recent storms The committee was told that work carried out in their aftermath has demonstrated the need for a co-ordinated response to trees and woodlands across the borough to ensure that not only is Mid and East Antrim’s tree cover increased but also that the health of existing tree and woodland stock is maintained on an ongoing basis Ald Ashe added: “We are not getting round this work quickly enough We are not getting round it as efficiently as we need.” The strategy states that Mid and East Antrim has 9,400 hectares of tree canopy cover ranging from 8.2 per cent in Braid to 15.1 per cent in Knockagh Electoral Area the average urban tree canopy cover in England is 16.5 per cent It warns: “One of the greatest threats facing tree populations is ash dieback a deadly fungal disease which was first recorded in Northern Ireland in 2012 and is now widespread across the region including Mid and East Antrim “Given the size of mature ash trees and the wide range of native biodiversity that depend on them both canopy cover and local ecosystems are at serious risk of decline over the next ten to 20 years The Woodland Trust estimates that up to 80 per cent of ash trees in the UK could be lost to this disease “A more varied tree scape reduces the risk of large-scale loss due to species specific threats The first step in achieving this is assessing the existing species composition across Mid and East Antrim to guide future planting and management.” it has been stressed that funding “remains a primary constraint” “A comprehensive financial plan for the Trees and Woodland Strategy is essential to secure resources for both immediate and long-term objectives Investing in staffing and training is pivotal for the success of tree and woodland programmes ensuring the borough’s green infrastructure is effectively managed and preserved,” it has been noted B and C drugs with an estimated street value of £1.5 million following a targeted search in County Antrim which took place earlier today in a rural area of Dunadry led to the discovery of substantial quantities of cocaine The illicit materials were recovered from a shed dwelling on a private property as part of what police are describing as a proactive and intelligence-led investigation The search was conducted with support from Local Policing Teams and Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) Interceptors forming part of PSNI’s continued efforts to combat organised criminal activity across Northern Ireland Detective Inspector Conor Sweeney of the Organised Crime Branch said: “Supported by our Local Policing Team colleagues with assistance from Tactical Support Group and ANPR Interceptors the drugs and drug-related paraphernalia have now been removed for forensic examination “A related search was also conducted at a nearby premises and our enquiries are continuing this evening.” Detective Inspector Sweeney reaffirmed the PSNI’s commitment to tackling the supply and distribution of illegal drugs “We work relentlessly to tackle the supply use and harm caused by illegal drugs and we will continue to do this to disrupt and prevent those involved in drug-related activity “We would ask anyone who may have information about drug-related activity in their community to contact us regardless of how insignificant it may seem could help make a big difference in tackling this type of organised crime and the harm it causes.” The PSNI is urging members of the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity Anyone with information is encouraged to contact police directly or to speak anonymously via the independent charity Crimestoppers by calling 0800 555 111 This latest seizure marks a significant blow to criminal networks operating in Northern Ireland and highlights the ongoing efforts by law enforcement to disrupt the trade and trafficking of illegal substances The well known local man was much respected for his endeavours as a member of the North Antrim farming community and his role as a councillor in Mid and East Antrim Borough Council up until May 2023 Mr Cherry also served as president of Ballymena Chamber of Commerce and Industry A funeral notice from James Henry Funeral Services states: Victoria and Catherine a loving brother and uncle “Family and friends welcome to call at the family home 40 Carnlea Road Ballymena BT43 6TSF ON Monday and Tuesday from 12noon to 8 pm donations in lieu if desired may be made payable to N.H.S.C.T Ballymena BT43 6EE for Antrim Area Hospital Coronary Care “Sadly missed and lovingly remembered by his wife chair of North Antrim DUP Association; (right) Ruth Lawrence chair of East Antrim DUP Association and newly appointed councillor for Braid The Democratic Unionist Party (DUP) has confirmed Ruth Lawrence as its new councillor for the Braid District Electoral Area (DEA) on Mid and East Antrim Borough Council has sparked a deep divide between some members of the party’s North Antrim Association and DUP HQ in Belfast related to questions raised by the selection process employed by senior leadership The North Antrim Association’s chairperson has since resigned her position - a move believed to be in connection with the ongoing dispute The vacancy in Braid arose after the death of Alderman Adger a respected figure whose legacy of public service was widely acknowledged The race to replace her saw significant local support for Julie Philpott a prominent figure in the DUP’s North Antrim Association who narrowly lost to the Traditional Unionist Party’s Matthew Warwick by just 10 votes in the May 2023 local elections had since risen to the role of association chairperson in October 2024 Many local members believed her dedication and experience made her the natural successor following a selection process overseen by DUP headquarters in Belfast the current chairperson of the DUP’s East Antrim Association The decision was facilitated by recent changes to electoral boundaries which now see the Braid DEA straddling both North Antrim and East Antrim constituencies a resident of Carnalbanagh within the Braid DUP Leader Gavin Robinson MP announced the appointment on Thursday extending his congratulations to Ms Lawrence “I extend my warmest congratulations to Ruth Lawrence as she takes up her position as Councillor for the Braid District Electoral Area in which she lives Ruth steps into this role following the sad passing of our esteemed colleague I have no doubt that Beth’s legacy of service will be honoured and continued Ruth is a passionate volunteer and a strong advocate for our armed forces community She is also deeply committed to youth services and to ensuring young people have the best opportunities in life through schools Newly appointed DUP Braid Councillor Ruth Lawrence who has a background in public service with the Prison Service and the Ministry of Defence and I do so with great respect for the legacy of Beth Adger I will carry forward the values and priorities that Beth championed so passionately I understand how public spending can be misdirected I want to ensure that Council resources are used wisely focused on what truly matters to local ratepayers and that they receive real value for money I will stand up for those communities that often feel overlooked communities who pay their rates but struggle to access services in the same way as urban areas “I also believe in unionism working together I will co-operate with fellow unionists to strengthen our voice and deliver the best outcomes for our constituents.” The appointment has been warmly welcomed by some DUP colleagues on Mid and East Antrim Borough Council Mayor and Braid Alderman William McCaughey said: “As a member of the DUP team in Mid and East Antrim I am delighted to welcome Ruth Lawrence on board Mid and East Antrim Borough Council Ruth will be an excellent addition to our group and I look forward to working alongside her over the coming years as we together serve the Braid constituents as their elected representatives.” Ballymena Councillor Reuben Glover added: “I wish to begin by expressing my deepest condolences to Beth’s family during this difficult time I am delighted to extend a warm welcome to Ruth as she joins our DUP team Ruth is a highly capable individual with a strong connection to Carnalbanagh Her impressive record as Chair of East Antrim and her active involvement in the community make her a valuable addition to our team “I am confident she will integrate seamlessly and contribute significantly to our efforts.” the decision has not been universally welcomed The selection of Ms Lawrence over Mrs Philpott has led to significant discontent within the North Antrim Association culminating in Mrs Philpott’s resignation as chairperson though it is understood she remains a party member at this time Local sources suggest that the decision is now being challenged with questions directed at DUP headquarters regarding the transparency and fairness of the selection process “I am currently unable to comment at this time.” the party faces the challenge of answering questions around the decision while honouring the legacy of Alderman Beth Adger Larne and Glentoran remain in the hunt for second place after their wins against Colerain and Crusaders Champions Linfield eased to victory against Dungannon Swifts Loughgall were relegated after defeat by Portadown whilst Carrick Rangers left it late to equalise against Ballymena United You can read the report from those games here This result means Coleraine will have to settle for a place in the play-offs Ryan Curran broke the deadlock with a typical poacher's finish before Eric McWoods sealed the points with a clinical strike The Reds were rarely troubled after taking the lead and take another step towards securing seventh and that final European playoff place Jim Magilton's men merely need to see out these final moments to secure a fifth consecutive win and maintain their impressive unbeaten run Ethan Devine and Luke Hawe in place of Patrick McEleney You can read the report from those games here 30Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingWatch: Cushley fires home late equaliserpublished at 17:05 British Summer Time 12 April17:05 BST 12 AprilFT: Ballymena United 1-1 Carrick Rangers David Cushley produces a composed finish to score a late equaliser for Carrick 42Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingPostpublished at 17:01 British Summer Time 12 April17:01 BST 12 AprilHere are the full-time results from across the Irish Premiership today 31Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingFULL-TIMEpublished at 16:56 British Summer Time 12 April16:56 BST 12 AprilColeraine 1-2 Larne Paul O'Neill's penalty settles a disappointing game and keeps Larne firmly in the hunt for second place 913Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingWatch: Wylie restores Ports two-goal leadpublished at 16:56 British Summer Time 12 April16:56 BST 12 AprilPortadown 3-1 Loughgall (FT) Here's how Portadown restored their two-goal advantage against Loughgall 60Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingFULL-TIMEpublished at 16:55 British Summer Time 12 April16:55 BST 12 AprilBallymena United 1-1 Carrick Rangers There isn't even time to restart the game as referee Declan Hassan blows the final whistle 51Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingFULL-TIMEpublished at 16:55 British Summer Time 12 April16:55 BST 12 AprilCliftonville 2-0 Glenavon The hosts make it five wins in a row with a professional performance at Solitude Ryan Curran broke the deadlock with a typical poacher's finish before Eric McWoods sealed the points with a clinical strike The Reds were rarely troubled after taking the lead and take another step towards securing seventh and that final European playoff place 44Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingGOAL - Ballymena United 1-1 Carrick Rangerspublished at 16:54 British Summer Time 12 April16:54 BST 12 AprilDavid Cushley - 90+6mins David Cushley squeezes home a shot from an acute angle to force an equaliser deep in stoppage time 156Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingWatch: Jarvis curls home Sky Blues openerpublished at 16:54 British Summer Time 12 April16:54 BST 12 AprilBallymena United 1-0 Carrick Rangers Aaron Jarvis flicks home the opener for Ballymena United Watch: Aaron Jarvis puts Ballymena in the lead 42Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingFULL-TIMEpublished at 16:53 British Summer Time 12 April16:53 BST 12 AprilPortadown 3-1 Loughgall Portadown come away with all three points at Shamrock Park a result that confirms Loughgall's relegation to the Championship 82Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingFULL-TIMEpublished at 16:53 British Summer Time 12 April16:53 BST 12 AprilLinfield 2-0 Dungannon Swifts A goal in each half secures another three points for champions Linfield Charlie Allen's strike in the first half and Josh Archer's in the second see the Blues progress to 85 points with just two Irish Premiership games remaining 145Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingRED CARDpublished at 16:52 British Summer Time 12 April16:52 BST 12 AprilPortadown 3-1 Loughgall A short afternoon for goal scorer Ben Wylie who is dismissed after coming on following two yellow cards 24Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingINJURY TIMEpublished at 16:51 British Summer Time 12 April16:51 BST 12 AprilCliftonville 2-0 Glenavon The fourth official indicates three minutes of additional time Jim Magilton's men merely need to see out these final moments to secure a fifth consecutive win and maintain their impressive unbeaten run 14Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingWatch: Ports double lead; Loughgall fire backpublished at 16:50 British Summer Time 12 April16:50 BST 12 AprilPortadown 3-1 Loughgall Josh Ukek gave Portadown a two-goal lead but within two minutes Loughgall narrowed the gap to one thanks to Ryan Waide Watch: Two quick-fire goals at Shamrock Park 42Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingFULL-TIMEpublished at 16:50 British Summer Time 12 April16:50 BST 12 AprilCrusaders 0-4 Glentoran Glentoran are now unbeaten in their last five league visits to Seaview as they secure three crucial points as they look to secure automatic European football 313Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingSUBSTITUTIONpublished at 16:49 British Summer Time 12 April16:49 BST 12 AprilBallymena United 1-0 Carrick Rangers A triple change from Ballymena who bring on Duncan Idehen 21Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingINJURY TIMEpublished at 16:49 British Summer Time 12 April16:49 BST 12 AprilLinfield 2-0 Dungannon Swifts Three minutes of additional time have been indicated by the fourth official 14Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingPostpublished at 16:48 British Summer Time 12 April16:48 BST 12 AprilCliftonville 2-0 Glenavon Cliftonville are looking utterly comfortable as we approach the final stages here 32Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingGOAL - Portadown 3-1 Loughgallpublished at 16:47 British Summer Time 12 April16:47 BST 12 AprilBen Wylie - 87 mins Substitute Ben Wylie adds a third for the Ports Loughgall's relegation will soon be confirmed 72Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingPostpublished at 16:47 British Summer Time 12 April16:47 BST 12 AprilCrusaders 0-4 Glentoran We're into three minutes of additional time 50Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingprevious pagePage 1 of 9123456…9next pageThis video can not be played Watch: Ballymena United 1-1 Carrick Rangers Watch the best of the action as Ballymena and Carrick Rangers draw 1-1 in the Irish Premiership. The BBC is not responsible for any changes that may be made Webb Match OfficialsReferee: Declan HassanAssistant Referee 1: Paul RobinsonAssistant Referee 2: Kristian HannaFourth Official: Ian McNabbHead to HeadSeason so farIrish Premiership Copyright © 2025 BBC. The BBC is not responsible for the content of external sites. Read about our approach to external linking. Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins has announced that a £280,000 carriageway resurfacing scheme on the M2 Ballymena Bypass Off Slip and On Slip to and from the Larne Road Roundabout Ballymena will commence on Tuesday 18 March 2025 The resurfacing scheme will extend from the M2 to Larne Road Roundabout and from the Larne Road Roundabout to the M2 - approximately 600m in length “This substantial investment for an important part of the strategic road network will deliver significant benefits for residents and road users The investment demonstrates my commitment to improving our road network which is vital for connecting our businesses and communities and commuters for their patience while this essential infrastructure work is carried out.” To facilitate the safe delivery of the scheme it will be necessary to implement continuous road closures from Tuesday 18 March 2025 until Friday 4 April 2025 to facilitate the resurfacing works.  During the times of the road closures diversionary routes will be signed as follows: The Department has programmed the work operations and traffic management arrangements to minimise inconvenience  Road users should expect some delays and are advised to allow additional time when travelling in the vicinity of the works and are asked to comply with all temporary traffic restrictions.  Subject to favourable weather conditions the works will be substantially complete by Friday 4 April 2025 however the Department will keep the public informed of any change For more information about this and other improvement schemes visit: Trafficwatchni. The FBA Brand Builder offices close to Ballymena. Inset: Darren Campbell Liquidators have been appointed for a controversial NI brand building company whose CEO announced its closure more than a month ago. The FBA Brand Builder, run by Darren Campbell (34), previously charged clients for guidance in launching their own online selling business through Amazon. Margaret Canning's selection of business stories sent every Tuesday Cliftonville sealed the seventh spot which guarantees them a place in the end-of-season play-offs should they fail to defeat Dungannon Swifts in next Saturday's Irish Cup final We'll be back with coverage of the play-offs and of course the Irish Cup final but for now it's goodbye from us Campbell broke the deadlock with a spectacular strike from distance just before the break and that was how it stayed to the end mainly through Callumn Morrison and Joshua Archer but found Coleraine 'keeper Max Little in defiant mood It has been somewhat of a fortress this season with the Ports boasting the second best home record in the Irish premiership behind champions Linfield there is no seventh place finish for Niall Currie's side as Cliftonville thrash Loughgall 4-1 with Alex Parsons and Ryan Curran adding the late gloss as the Reds ran out comfortable winners Loughgall grabbed a penalty through Ryan Waide What a chance that was and we're now into four minutes of additional time Cliftonville sealed the seventh spot which guarantees them a place in the end-of-season play-offs should they fail to defeat Dungannon Swifts in next Saturday's Irish Cup final We'll be back with coverage of the play-offs and of course the Irish Cup final but for now it's goodbye from us 120Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingPostpublished at 19:38 British Summer Time 26 April19:38 BST 26 AprilLarne 0-0 Glentoran Larne's players have returned to the pitch to take a well-earned ovation from the home fans the Invermen will have more continental action next term 167Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingPostpublished at 19:31 British Summer Time 26 April19:31 BST 26 AprilLarne 0-0 Glentoran the upshot is that Larne have finished second and secured automatic European qualification Glentoran will have to take their chances in the European play-offs - and they may well be without several players as a result of red cards issued after the final whistle 2213Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingPostpublished at 19:29 British Summer Time 26 April19:29 BST 26 AprilLarne 0-0 Glentoran The disturbances have continued down the players' tunnel Really unsavoury scenes at the end of such an important fixture 412Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingRED CARDpublished at 19:27 British Summer Time 26 April19:27 BST 26 AprilLarne 0-0 Glentoran There have now been at least three red cards after the final whistle and the confrontations have begun again 204Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingFULL-TIMEpublished at 19:27 British Summer Time 26 April19:27 BST 26 AprilColeraine 1-0 Linfield All over at the Showgrounds where Rhyss Campbell's ninth goal of the season seals a hard-earned 1-0 win but found Coleraine 'keeper Max Little in defiant mood 1510Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingFULL-TIMEpublished at 19:25 British Summer Time 26 April19:25 BST 26 AprilPortadown 2-1 Ballymena United No goals in the second half and Portadown secure three points at Shamrock Park there is no seventh place finish for Niall Currie's side as Cliftonville thrash Loughgall 4-1 This result means Ballymena United finish in nineth with the Ports in eighth 110Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingPostpublished at 19:25 British Summer Time 26 April19:25 BST 26 AprilColeraine 1-0 Linfield Matthew Shevlin passes up an opportunity to double Coleraine's lead deep in added time 35Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingFULL-TIMEpublished at 19:24 British Summer Time 26 April19:24 BST 26 AprilLarne 0-0 Glentoran The full-time whistle goes and there is mayhem on the pitch with all sorts of confrontations between players Referee Jamie Robinson has brandished a red card but it's impossible to say who the recipient is 94Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingPostpublished at 19:24 British Summer Time 26 April19:24 BST 26 AprilColeraine 1-0 Linfield Kirk Millar delivers a free-kick into the heart of the Coleraine defence Matthew Fitzpatrick gets in front of his marker but flashes his header wide of the post 82Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingPostpublished at 19:23 British Summer Time 26 April19:23 BST 26 AprilLarne 0-0 Glentoran Finley Thorndike's shot is saved by Rohan Ferguson and Shaun Want makes a crucial intervention to deny Nathaniel Ferris from the rebound 22Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingFULL-TIMEpublished at 19:23 British Summer Time 26 April19:23 BST 26 AprilDungannon Swifts 1-0 Crusaders Dungannon equal their joint highest Premiership finish as they claim all three points at Stangmore Park 125Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingYELLOW CARDpublished at 19:23 British Summer Time 26 April19:23 BST 26 AprilColeraine 1-0 Linfield Coleraine's Paddy Burns becomes the latest player to be booked for a foul challenge on Kieran Offord 15Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingYELLOW CARDpublished at 19:21 British Summer Time 26 April19:21 BST 26 AprilColeraine 1-0 Linfield The cards keep coming as Euan East is booked for a late challenge on Aidan Tejada 73Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingPostpublished at 19:21 British Summer Time 26 April19:21 BST 26 AprilColeraine 1-0 Linfield Into five additional minutes at the Showgrounds 70Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingYELLOW CARDpublished at 19:20 British Summer Time 26 April19:20 BST 26 AprilColeraine 1-0 Linfield Linfield manager David Healy is shown a yellow card by referee Tony Clarke as he protests against Scot Whiteside's dismissal 133Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingFULL-TIMEpublished at 19:20 British Summer Time 26 April19:20 BST 26 AprilLoughgall 1-4 Cliftonville All over at Lakeview and Cliftonville warm up well for next weekend's Irish Cup final with a comfortable win but it’s a small consolation on a day when Jim Magilton’s men simply had too much quality 112Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingINJURY TIMEpublished at 19:20 British Summer Time 26 April19:20 BST 26 AprilPortadown 2-1 Ballymena United Four minutes of additional time have been awarded at Shamrock Park Can the Ports hold on or do the Sky Blues have another equaliser in them 32Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingRED CARDpublished at 19:19 British Summer Time 26 April19:19 BST 26 AprilColeraine 1-0 Linfield The afternoon goes from bad to worse for the league champions as Scot Whiteside is shown a second yellow for pulling back Matthew Shevlin and is sent off by referee Tony Clarke 207Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingCLOSE!published at 19:19 British Summer Time 26 April19:19 BST 26 AprilDungannon Swifts 1-0 Crusaders Oilibhear McCart's effort is denied by Alex Henderson with Josh O'Connor's follow-up strike headed off the line by Dylan King What a chance that was and we're now into four minutes of additional time 41Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingprevious pagePage 1 of 12123456…12next pageThis video can not be played Highlights: Portadown 2-1 Ballymena United Watch the best of the action as Portadown beat Ballymena 2-1 in the Irish Premiership. substituted for Ahu Obhakhan at 65 minutesNumber 21 Phinn Match OfficialsReferee: Ian McNabbAssistant Referee 1: Stephen DonaldsonAssistant Referee 2: John DohertyFourth Official: Ben McmasterHead to HeadSeason so farIrish Premiership The fight for second will go down to the last day after Glentoran were beaten by Dungannon Swifts Jay Boyd netted a hat-trick to help Crusaders past Coleraine whilst Portadown kept the fight for seventh place alive with a comfortable win against Cliftonville Glenavon beat Ballymena United 2-0 whilst Benji Magee scored a late equaliser to rescue a point for relegated Loughgall against Carrick Rangers Reaction and highlights will follow on the BBC Sport website If things stay as they are at Stangmore Park Crusaders move up to fifth while the Bannsiders drop to sixth Eamon Fyfe’s early goal and a stunning strike from Josh Ukek proved to be the difference The Larne loanee picks the ball up on the left flank manouvers his way past a few challenges before cutting inside and slotting home from inside the area The Reds will need something special if they’re to find a late equaliser but referee Tim Marshall instead awards a free-kick on the edge of the box Loughgall manager Darren Murphy is furious with the decision as he feels his man was brought down inside the area You can read the report from those games here 71Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingNewry relegated from Championshippublished at 17:07 British Summer Time 19 April17:07 BST 19 AprilFT: Newington 3-2 Newry City Newry City have been relegated from the Championship after defeat by Newington who were demoted from the Irish Premiership last season 52Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharing'Portadown deserved the win'published at 17:00 British Summer Time 19 April17:00 BST 19 AprilFT: Portadown 2-0 Cliftonville what is worrying for Cliftonville is that the side that finished the game is like that which might start the Irish Cup final 77Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingSaturday's resultspublished at 16:59 British Summer Time 19 April16:59 BST 19 AprilHere are the results from today's five Irish Premiership games 21Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingWatch: Magic from Mageepublished at 16:58 British Summer Time 19 April16:58 BST 19 AprilFT: Loughgall 2-2 Carrick Rangers who weaves his way into the box before coolly finishing Watch: Benji Magee makes it 2-2 at Lakeview 91Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingFULL-TIMEpublished at 16:56 British Summer Time 19 April16:56 BST 19 AprilDungannon Swifts 3-2 Glentoran Dungannon Swifts end their run of five league games without a victory and move up to fourth as they are the victors of an exciting game at Stangmore Park The result also means that Larne are two points ahead of the Glens ahead of next weeks clash between the sides at Inver Park 517Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingWatch: Galvin curls Swifts back in frontpublished at 16:56 British Summer Time 19 April16:56 BST 19 AprilDungannon Swifts 3-2 Glentoran Tomas Galvin curls home a fine goal for Dungannon Swifts to restore their lead Watch: Tomas Galvin restores the lead for Dungannon Swifts 358Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingPostpublished at 16:55 British Summer Time 19 April16:55 BST 19 AprilDungannon Swifts 3-2 Glentoran The answer is no with Dungannon clearing their lines 256Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingPostpublished at 16:55 British Summer Time 19 April16:55 BST 19 AprilDungannon Swifts 3-2 Glentoran Glentoran have a corner and stopper Daniel Gyollai is up 317Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingFULL-TIMEpublished at 16:54 British Summer Time 19 April16:54 BST 19 AprilGlenavon 2-0 Ballymena United It's all over at Mourneview Park where Glenavon end a run of seven league games without a win as they sign off with victory in their final game in front of their own fans 77Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingBangor promoted to Irish Premiershippublished at 16:53 British Summer Time 19 April16:53 BST 19 AprilFT: H&W Welders 0-1 Bangor Bangor are back in the Irish Premiership for the first time since 2009 after their narrow win at the Blanchflower Stadium 546Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingFULL-TIMEpublished at 16:53 British Summer Time 19 April16:53 BST 19 AprilLoughgall 2-2 Carrick Rangers The spoils are shared at Lakeview Park as Loughgall and Carrick Rangers battle it out to a 2-2 draw A goal in each half for each side sees both sides leave with a point 82Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingFULL-TIMEpublished at 16:52 British Summer Time 19 April16:52 BST 19 AprilCrusaders 3-0 Coleraine A Jay Boyd hat-trick gives Crusaders their fifth win out of five against Coleraine this season 1810Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingGOAL - Glenavon 2-0 Ballymena Unitedpublished at 16:52 British Summer Time 19 April16:52 BST 19 AprilLuke McGerrigan - 90+5mins Glenavon wrap up the points as they counter-attack quickly with Peter Campbell releasing substitute Luke McGerrigan to race clear and slot past Sean O'Neill 156Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingFULL-TIMEpublished at 16:52 British Summer Time 19 April16:52 BST 19 AprilPortadown 2-0 Cliftonville Portadown hold on to secure a 2-0 victory over Cliftonville Eamon Fyfe’s early goal and a stunning strike from Josh Ukek proved to be the difference The race for the final European play-off place will go to the final day 244Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingPostpublished at 16:50 British Summer Time 19 April16:50 BST 19 AprilDungannon Swifts 3-2 Glentoran We've played the 90 and are into six minutes of additional time 139Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingGOAL - Loughgall 2-2 Carrick Rangerspublished at 16:49 British Summer Time 19 April16:49 BST 19 AprilBenji Magee - 90+2 mins Benji Magee has salvaged a point for Loughgall with a wonderful solo effort in injury time who has all but secured a point for his side this afternoon 246Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingINJURY TIMEpublished at 16:49 British Summer Time 19 April16:49 BST 19 AprilPortadown 2-0 Cliftonville We’re into three minutes of injury time here at Shamrock Park 92Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingPENALTY APPEALpublished at 16:48 British Summer Time 19 April16:48 BST 19 AprilLoughgall 1-2 Carrick Rangers Huge penalty appeals as Adam Towe goes down inside the area It certainly looks inside the box from our vantage point 24Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingINJURY TIMEpublished at 16:48 British Summer Time 19 April16:48 BST 19 AprilCrusaders 3-0 Coleraine Three added minutes here at Seaview although most of the away end have disappeared off home already 62Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingprevious pagePage 1 of 9123456…9next pageThis video can not be played Highlights: Glenavon scrape past Sky Blues at Mourneview Park Watch the highlights as Glenavon beat Ballymena United 2-0 in the Irish Premiership at Mourneview Park Read the report here McGerrigan at 90 minutesSubstituteshome team McGerrigan at 90 minutesSubstitutesNumber 17 Phinn Match OfficialsReferee: Ross DunlopAssistant Referee 1: John DohertyAssistant Referee 2: Ryan KelseyFourth Official: Shane AndrewsHead to HeadSeason so farIrish Premiership with the German discount supermarket chain submitting a Proposal of Application Notice (PAN) to Mid and East Antrim Borough Council in recent days located just off the Ecos roundabout on Broughshane Road in Ballymena signals a significant investment in the town’s evolving retail landscape First revealed by Love Ballymena last year the council agreed to sell three acres of land to Lidl for the new store The decision was made behind closed doors during a council meeting at The Braid on Monday Councillor Bréanainn Lyness has welcomed the plans saying: I am proud to have proposed the sale of this land for the development of a new Lidl store in Ballymena “This project offers significant benefits for the community providing affordable shopping while also creating jobs during construction and operation “This Lidl’s presence will enhance the town’s retail appeal attracting more shoppers and supporting nearby businesses This development is a positive step forward improving access to essentials while fostering economic growth in Ballymena." The plot of land proposed as site of new Lidl store in Ballymena brought to market by the council in Spring 2024 with an asking price of £1.2 million has now been earmarked for the retail giant though the final sale price remains undisclosed While the plans are still in their infancy the submission of the PAN marks a key step in Lidl’s ambitious expansion strategy across Northern Ireland The discount supermarket has been pouring significant resources into its development programme which includes upgrading existing stores and constructing new ones to meet growing demand Lidl Northern Ireland celebrated its 25th anniversary in the province in 2024 a milestone accompanied by the announcement of a record-breaking £360 million contribution to the local economy in 2023 The retailer also supported nearly 6,900 jobs underscoring its role as a major economic driver Lidl has pledged an additional £150 million to expand its network to 50 stores by the end of the decade The retailer’s growth comes at a time when households across Northern Ireland are grappling with rising food costs and challenging financial conditions Lidl Northern Ireland has capitalised on this climate establishing itself as the province’s fastest-growing supermarket Its commitment to offering affordable prices has resonated with consumers fuelling demand for new locations and larger stores - like the one proposed in Ballymena Lidl opened a new store at Riverside Retail Park in Coleraine was hailed as the largest Lidl store in Northern Ireland to date the Coleraine outlet showcased the retailer’s latest “concept” store design the Ballymena proposal is set to eclipse it with a planned footprint of 2,559 square metres making it the largest Lidl store in the province if approved Lidl’s latest store designs prioritise sustainability and innovation The Ballymena proposal is expected to incorporate industry-leading energy efficiency systems aligning with the company’s commitment to reducing its environmental impact Recent stores approved elsewhere have also included electric vehicle charging points a feature likely to be included in Ballymena to cater to the growing number of EV drivers These enhancements are part of Lidl’s broader effort to improve the shopping experience while meeting modern environmental expectations Ahead of submitting a full planning application Lidl is inviting the public to share their views on the Ballymena proposal A consultation drop-in event is scheduled for Thursday from 4:30pm to 6:30pm at the Ecos Centre on Kernohan’s Lane Preliminary drawings of the proposed store will be on display and members of the project team will be available to answer questions and gather feedback Residents and businesses within 100 metres of the site boundary will receive a letter detailing the proposal and event at least seven days in advance ensuring the community has ample opportunity to engage with the plans The Lidl development is just one piece of Ballymena’s ongoing retail transformation with new stores and residential projects reshaping its commercial and social fabric Construction is well underway on a 39,160 square foot Home Bargains store in the Queen Street area The discount retailer is expected to open its doors in time for the summer adding another major player to the town’s retail mix a new 26,100 square foot Primark store is taking shape at the Fairhill Shopping Centre The fashion retailer is on track to welcome customers in early September 2025 further boosting Ballymena’s appeal as a shopping destination the rise of town centre living is breathing new life into the area creating a vibrant blend of residential and commercial spaces While the project awaits full planning approval the retailer’s track record suggests it could become a cornerstone of the local economy residents will soon have their say in shaping this latest chapter in Ballymena’s growth during which a significant quantity of alcohol was confiscated from children under the age of 18 The patrols saw officers engage with groups of young people travelling by train across the district In a stark reminder of the ongoing issue of underage drinking officers spoke to youths as young as 14 in possession of alcoholic beverages A substantial collection of alcohol—ranging from alcopops and beer to spirits—was seized and displayed in an image released by the police “Below you can see a selection of the drink that was take off children under 18 Youths as young as 14 were spoken to and several parents contacted to come and collect their children for their own safety,” a spokesperson for the District Support Team stated Parents were contacted directly to collect their children underscoring the potential risk to their safety had they remained unsupervised while in possession of alcohol The operation formed part of the continuing efforts by the Local Policing Team and DST officers who remained active throughout the evening responding to numerous calls These are typically high-demand periods for police services especially during weekends and public holidays Neighbourhood policing officers were also active in Carrick and Larne where community events took place amid warm spring weather Officers reported generally positive interactions with members of the public “Neighbourhood officers are finishing duty soon after attending several events in Carrick and Larne where most people were in good spirits and enjoying the pleasant weather.” Police will continue their visibility across transport networks and public spaces in the coming weeks as part of their proactive approach to keeping communities safe Results elsewhere mean that Glenavon leapfrog Ballymena Christopher Atherton opened the scoring for the visitors with his first league goal of the campaign after 18 minutes And midfielder Jack Malone popped up unmarked in the Loughgall penalty area to head home his team's second from a pin point Peter Campbell cross The Lurgan Blues had chances to extend their lead against a Loughgall side who created little After sustained pressure in and around the Larne box Kyle Cherry fires in a low free-kick from the right that is back-heeled into the Larne goal by Crowe but Daniel Lafferty halts the promising run and is cautioned Luke Hawe is introduced for Caolan Loughran for the away side with Declan Devine bringing on Charlie Lindsay and Jonny Russell Take a look at this classy touch from the Carrick man to earn his side all three points against champions Larne Watch: Joe Crowe scores the winner for Carrick in extra time 183Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingFULL-TIMEpublished at 21:41 Greenwich Mean Time 4 March21:41 GMT 4 MarchGlentoran 1-0 Ballymena United Despite Ballymena coming very close at the end Glentoran secure the three points thanks to a Nathaniel Ferris goal 3922Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingCLOSE!published at 21:41 Greenwich Mean Time 4 March21:41 GMT 4 MarchGlentoran 1-0 Ballymena United What a chance for Ballymena right at the death James Hood does well to keep possession when under pressure from Fuad Sule and whips it into the box with Stephen O'Donnell's header somehow stopped by Daniel Gyollai 710Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingFULL-TIMEpublished at 21:39 Greenwich Mean Time 4 March21:39 GMT 4 MarchLoughgall 0-2 Glenavon All over at Lakeview Park where Glenavon's revival under Paddy McLaughlin continues with a comfortable 2-0 win at Loughgall And midfielder Jack Malone popped up unmarked in the Loughgall penalty area to head home his team's second from a pin point Peter Campbell cross 93Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingPostpublished at 21:39 Greenwich Mean Time 4 March21:39 GMT 4 MarchGlentoran 1-0 Ballymena United It has started to absolutely chuck it down at the Oval as we approach the full-time whistle 93Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingFULL-TIMEpublished at 21:37 Greenwich Mean Time 4 March21:37 GMT 4 MarchCarrick 1-0 Larne It is all over at Taylors Avenue and dramatic scenes in full view as Joe Crowe wins it at the death for Carrick's first win since November 545Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingGOAL - Carrick 1-0 Larnepublished at 21:35 Greenwich Mean Time 4 March21:35 GMT 4 MarchJoe Crowe - 90+3mins 757Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingPostpublished at 21:35 Greenwich Mean Time 4 March21:35 GMT 4 MarchGlentoran 1-0 Ballymena United We've played the 90 and are into four minutes of additional time 106Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingYELLOW CARDpublished at 21:35 Greenwich Mean Time 4 March21:35 GMT 4 MarchGlentoran 1-0 Ballymena United Glentoran try to counter-attack after the Sky Blues had pushed forward 82Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingPostpublished at 21:34 Greenwich Mean Time 4 March21:34 GMT 4 MarchLoughgall 0-2 Glenavon A third change for the visitors as Michael O'Connor is replaced by Aaron Pendergast 42Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingSUBSTITUTIONSpublished at 21:34 Greenwich Mean Time 4 March21:34 GMT 4 MarchGlentoran 1-0 Ballymena United Finley Thorndike and Aaron Wightman make way 42Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingPostpublished at 21:32 Greenwich Mean Time 4 March21:32 GMT 4 MarchCarrick 0-0 Larne Carrick still applying pressure within the Larne half but we still await a first attempt on target in the second period 132Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingPostpublished at 21:31 Greenwich Mean Time 4 March21:31 GMT 4 MarchGlentoran 1-0 Ballymena United Somehow Daniel Lafferty's free-kick evades everyone in the busy box and sails out of play 610Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingYELLOW CARDpublished at 21:30 Greenwich Mean Time 4 March21:30 GMT 4 MarchGlentoran 1-0 Ballymena United Aaron Wightman is cautioned for a shove and Ballymena now have a free-kick just outside the box 38Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingPostpublished at 21:29 Greenwich Mean Time 4 March21:29 GMT 4 MarchGlentoran 1-0 Ballymena United Ballymena are pushing forward and searching for an equaliser However they have struggled to put Daniel Gyollai under much pressure 92Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingSUBSTITUTIONpublished at 21:28 Greenwich Mean Time 4 March21:28 GMT 4 MarchLoughgall 0-2 Glenavon A double change for Glenavon as Paul McGovern and Ben Wilson replace Christopher Atherton and Peter Campbell for the final seven minutes 21Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingYELLOW CARDpublished at 21:27 Greenwich Mean Time 4 March21:27 GMT 4 MarchGlentoran 1-0 Ballymena United Another booking for someone on the Ballymena bench It looks like it's goalkeeping coach Stuart Addis who was cautioned 45Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingPostpublished at 21:24 Greenwich Mean Time 4 March21:24 GMT 4 MarchLoughgall 0-2 Glenavon A third change for the hosts as Lee McMenemy replaces Robbie Norton 11Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingPostpublished at 21:23 Greenwich Mean Time 4 March21:23 GMT 4 MarchGlentoran 1-0 Ballymena United It's certainly not the best set-piece I've ever seen as it sails well wide 67Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingSUBSTITUTIONpublished at 21:21 Greenwich Mean Time 4 March21:21 GMT 4 MarchGlentoran 1-0 Ballymena United Ballymena respond by making a change of their own with Joe Moore replacing Calvin McCurry 42Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingprevious pagePage 1 of 51234…5next pageThis video can not be played Highlights: Glentoran edge out Sky Blues at The Oval Nathaniel Ferris' first goal for Glentoran secured a 1-0 win over Ballymena United as Declan Devine's side got back to winning ways Read more. Moore Match OfficialsReferee: Evan BoyceAssistant Referee 1: Rachel GreerAssistant Referee 2: Richard HegartyFourth Official: Mark MilliganHead to HeadSeason so farIrish Premiership You can read the report from those six games here Highlights and reaction will follow on the BBC Sport website Robbie McDaid's early strike gave the Blues the advantage at the break before Matthew Fitzpatrick and Kieran Offord both netted in the second half with Ahu Obhakhan opening\nthe scoring for the home side on the 21st minute before Harry Murphy\nheaded Glenavon level on the 37th minute The second half was full of grit and effort but little in\nthe way of clear cut chances with what was the final action\nof the game Josh Ukek cuts inside and tries to curl the ball into the top\ncorner of the Glenavon goal Mark Byrne fumbles it and the ball falls to James Teelan,\nbut his headed effort was weak and went wide of the target A Gael Bigirimana own-goal edged the visitors in from midway through the opening half as he attempted to block Chris Gallagher's cross The Swifts responded positively to this setback and levelled with an own goal of their own just after the half hour Ryan Nolan putting through his own net under pressure from Tomas Galvin It's a result which plunges Loughgall ever closer to the relegation trapdoor Second-half strikes from Eric McWoods and Joe Gormley cap a composed clinical turnaround after Danny Gibson’s early opener You can read the report from those six games here 70Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingWatch: Spot on from McManuspublished at 21:54 British Summer Time 1 April21:54 BST 1 AprilFT: Glentoran 2-1 Coleraine Declan McManus pulls one back for Coleraine late on with a penalty after Matthew Shevlin was fouled in the box Watch: Declan McManus pulls one back for the Bannsiders from the penalty spot 40Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingWatch: Gormley adds late third for Redspublished at 21:51 British Summer Time 1 April21:51 BST 1 AprilFT: Carrick Rangers 1-3 Cliftonville Joe Gormley coolly finishes to add a third for Cliftonville Watch: Joe Gormley makes it 3-1 to Cliftonville 95Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingFULL-TIMEpublished at 21:41 British Summer Time 1 April21:41 BST 1 AprilGlentoran 2-1 Coleraine Some late drama at the Oval as Coleraine pull a goal back but it was not enough and Glentoran head second in the table with a victory 2510Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingFULL-TIMEpublished at 21:40 British Summer Time 1 April21:40 BST 1 AprilLinfield 3-1 Crusaders Runaway champions Linfield add another three points to their tally with a 3-1 victory over Crusaders at Windsor Park Robbie McDaid's early strike gave the Blues the advantage at the break Jay Boyd grabbed a consolation for the visitors but it's David Healy's side who move to 79 points for the season with four games remaining 2711Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingGOAL - Glentoran 2-1 Colerainepublished at 21:40 British Summer Time 1 April21:40 BST 1 AprilDeclan McManus (pen) - 90+6mins Coleraine snatch a penalty in the dying moments but it is too little 1329Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingFULL-TIMEpublished at 21:39 British Summer Time 1 April21:39 BST 1 AprilPortadown 1-1 Glenavon 92Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingFULL-TIMEpublished at 21:38 British Summer Time 1 April21:38 BST 1 AprilDungannon Swifts 1-1 Larne All over at Stangmore Park where the sides must settle for a point apiece A Gael Bigirimana own-goal edged the visitors in from midway through the opening half as he attempted to block Chris Gallagher's cross Neither side was able to find a winner after the break so it's honours even at the end of 90 minutes 150Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingWatch: McWoods gives Cliftonville the leadpublished at 21:38 British Summer Time 1 April21:38 BST 1 AprilFT: Carrick Rangers 1-3 Cliftonville A swift counter-attack from the Reds and Eric McWoods scores a fine solo goal to give them the lead Watch: Eric McWoods gives Cliftonville the lead against Carrick 348Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingGREAT SAVE!published at 21:38 British Summer Time 1 April21:38 BST 1 AprilLinfield 3-1 Crusaders Jonny Tuffey does well to get down to his right to deny Matthew Fitzpatrick from a second goal of the evening The Blues are camped in the Crusaders half in added time as they look at put the icing on the cake with a fourth goal 85Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingFULL-TIMEpublished at 21:37 British Summer Time 1 April21:37 BST 1 AprilBallymena United 5-2 Loughgall Referee Evan Boyce brings a seven-goal bonanza to a close at the Showgrounds It's a result which plunges Loughgall ever closer to the relegation trapdoor while Ballymena will still have one eye on the race for seventh place and a spot in the European play-offs 184Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingPostpublished at 21:37 British Summer Time 1 April21:37 BST 1 AprilDungannon Swifts 1-1 Larne Stuart KingFormer Carrick Rangers manager on BBC iPlayer they have made real positive substitutions but I think Dungannon will be disappointed because they have edged it especially second half 91Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingFULL-TIMEpublished at 21:36 British Summer Time 1 April21:36 BST 1 AprilCarrick Rangers 1-3 Cliftonville Full-time at Loughview Leisure Arena and it’s Cliftonville who take the spoils but Jim Magilton’s charges showed their class when it mattered 127Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingWatch: Boyd pulls one back for Cruespublished at 21:35 British Summer Time 1 April21:35 BST 1 AprilLinfield 3-1 Crusaders Jay Boyd nets a consolation for Crusaders with a calm finish Watch: Jay Boyd pulls one back for Crusaders 59Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingINJURY TIMEpublished at 21:34 British Summer Time 1 April21:34 BST 1 AprilLinfield 3-1 Crusaders Five minutes of additional time to be played at Windsor Park 74Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingPostpublished at 21:34 British Summer Time 1 April21:34 BST 1 AprilDungannon Swifts 1-1 Larne Into four additional minutes at Stangmore Park 32Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingPostpublished at 21:34 British Summer Time 1 April21:34 BST 1 AprilBallymena United 5-2 Loughgall Kian Corbally's shot is beaten out by Nathan Gartside as Ballymena chase a sixth goal in stoppage time 93Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingPostpublished at 21:33 British Summer Time 1 April21:33 BST 1 AprilPortadown 1-1 Glenavon 71Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingPostpublished at 21:33 British Summer Time 1 April21:33 BST 1 AprilGlentoran 2-0 Coleraine All quiet at the Oval as we head into the dying minutes Coleraine cut a frustrated team as they fail to break down the Glens' defence 188Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingPostpublished at 21:32 British Summer Time 1 April21:32 BST 1 AprilDungannon Swifts 1-1 Larne Andy Ryan is the latest Larne player to fall foul of referee Ben McMaster and is booked for a spot of time wasting 61Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingprevious pagePage 1 of 11123456…11next pageThis video can not be played Highlights: Ballymena United beat Loughgall 5-2 Loughgall are on the verge of relegation from the Irish Premiership after a 5-2 defeat by Ballymena United at the Showgrounds The Villagers are nine points adrift with four games remaining Read more. McCallion at 76 minutesSubstituteshome team McCallion at 76 minutesSubstitutesNumber 29 Turker Match OfficialsReferee: Evan BoyceAssistant Referee 1: Andrew NetheryAssistant Referee 2: Kristian HannaFourth Official: Mark DillonHead to HeadSeason so farIrish Premiership a one-of-a-kind indoor dog park with a quirky pub twist this pawsome venue is just a five-minute drive from Ballymena town centre making it a convenient treat for pooches and their owners alike The Dog’s Inn isn’t your average dog park—it’s a pub-inspired paradise designed exclusively for canine companions and plenty of “pub-tastic” photo opportunities to keep your dog-stagram looking fetch Whether your furry friend is a social butterfly or a lone wolf The Dog’s Inn ensures every 45-minute session is yours alone no interruptions—just quality time for you and your pup It’s an ideal haven for dogs still mastering their social skills or those who simply prefer their own space The venture is the brainchild of mother-and-daughter duo Eileen and Clare Taylor who poured their hearts into creating this doggy delight “We hope all our visitors will have as much fun using the park as we have had bringing our idea to life—what could be better than paws and pints!” they enthused Living in Northern Ireland often means battling unpredictable weather This indoor haven guarantees dogs can enjoy off-lead fun without the hassle of muddy paws or dreary days leaving owners free to relax knowing their pets are having a blast So, if you’re on the hunt for a fun, safe, and weather-proof way to let your dog stretch their legs, The Dog’s Inn is the place to be. To find out more or book your exclusive session, please tap here The event celebrated a remarkable £149,923.93 raised locally over the past year for the Northern Ireland Hospice and Northern Ireland Children’s Hospice showcasing the community’s unwavering commitment to supporting vital end-of-life care services The AGM welcomed distinguished guests Trevor McCartney Duffy provided an inspiring update on the organisation’s efforts to boost income highlighting innovative community partnerships including a new collaboration with the Belfast Giants His address underscored the impactful work being done to ensure the Hospice can continue providing essential care for adults and children across Northern Ireland “We are incredibly motivated by Conal’s insights and the amazing work of the Hospice team,” a spokesperson for the Ballymena Hospice Support Group said “We’re excited for the year ahead and deeply grateful to our community for their generosity.” The meeting also saw the election and re-election of officer positions within the group A heartfelt tribute was paid to outgoing Chairperson Toni who served with distinction for four years and as Vice Chair for five years prior The £149,923.93 raised reflects the collective efforts of Ballymena’s residents From street collections to organised events and individual donations every contribution has bolstered the Hospice’s ability to support those in need “Every penny raised helps provide care for children and adults in our community when they need it most,” the group emphasised The Ballymena Hospice Support Group is already planning a busy year of fundraising initiatives Golf enthusiasts are also invited to participate in the Ballymena Borough Chamber of Commerce and Industry’s annual Charity Golf Day on Thursday This event, in aid of the Northern Ireland Children’s Hospice, promises a day of sport and philanthropy. To book a place, contact Robert Stewart at Robert_alan_stewart@hotmail.com Sponsorship opportunities are available through Tom Wiggins at tom@ballymenachamber.co.uk “Hit the green for a great cause!” the group enthused • Hospice Fair 2025: Applications now open A highlight of the group’s calendar is the Annual Hospice Fair offers local businesses and artisans a platform to showcase their products while raising funds for the Hospice Applications of interest are now open and must be submitted by Monday, 19 May 2025. Interested parties can apply online at forms.gle/UP6ohjULtexPkiJPA or request the application link by emailing hospicechristmasfair@yahoo.com The Ballymena Hospice Support Group expressed enthusiasm for the upcoming fair noting its role in fostering community spirit and supporting a vital cause “We look forward to welcoming businesses and visitors to this special event,” they said As the Ballymena Hospice Support Group gears up for another year of fundraising they remain steadfast in their mission to support the Northern Ireland Hospice and Children’s Hospice the group is poised to make an even greater impact in 2025 For more information on how to get involved, visit the Northern Ireland Hospice website at nihospice.org or follow the Ballymena Hospice Support Group on social media That completes our live text coverage of this evening's Irish Premiership game between Ballymena United and Larne at the Showgrounds as the visitors recover from a one-goal deficit to run out 2-1 victors Keep an eye out for the match report appearing on the website soon as well as the highlights from tonight's game We'll be back with a top flight league double-header tomorrow night as Cliftonville host Dungannon Swifts and Glentoran are at home to Glenavon in what promises to be another exciting evening of action Be sure to join us then but for now it's goodnight from us 91Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingFULL-TIMEpublished at 21:41 Greenwich Mean Time 11 March21:41 GMT 11 MarchBallymena United 1-2 Larne That disallowed effort is the final action of a hard-fought game as Larne claim three important points as they chase runners-up spot 135Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingDISALLOWED GOALpublished at 21:39 Greenwich Mean Time 11 March21:39 GMT 11 MarchBallymena United 1-2 Larne Ballymena believe they have scored a late equaliser as Ben Kennedy converts from close range following a corner but the referee's assistant rules out the effort for offside 1916Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingPostpublished at 21:34 Greenwich Mean Time 11 March21:34 GMT 11 MarchBallymena United 1-2 Larne The fourth official signals six minutes of additional time 74Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingPostpublished at 21:34 Greenwich Mean Time 11 March21:34 GMT 11 MarchBallymena United 1-2 Larne Ballymena force a late corner but Stephen O'Donnell's header through a ruck of players goes straight through to Rohan Ferguson 32Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingSUBSTITUTIONpublished at 21:32 Greenwich Mean Time 11 March21:32 GMT 11 MarchBallymena United 1-2 Larne Another change for Larne as youngster James Simpson replaces Jordan McEneff 33Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingSUBSTITUTIONpublished at 21:27 Greenwich Mean Time 11 March21:27 GMT 11 MarchBallymena United 1-2 Larne Ballymena boss Jim Ervin opts to throw the proverbial kitchen sink at it in his pursuit of an equaliser with a triple change Larne respond by replacing Paul O'Neill with Oisin Devlin 41Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingO'Neill drills home to put Larne in frontpublished at 21:26 Greenwich Mean Time 11 March21:26 GMT 11 MarchBallymena Utd 1-2 Larne Watch Paul O'Neill rifle the ball home to put Larne ahead at the Showgrounds Watch: Paul O'Neill scores for Larne to make it 2-1 103Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingPostpublished at 21:24 Greenwich Mean Time 11 March21:24 GMT 11 MarchBallymena United 1-2 Larne A stoppage for an injury to Larne's Paul O'Neill gives both sets of players a breather There are 10 minutes to play at the Showgrounds 42Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingYELLOW CARDpublished at 21:21 Greenwich Mean Time 11 March21:21 GMT 11 MarchBallymena United 1-2 Larne Larne's Mark Randall picks up a caution for a foul shortly after coming on 35Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingSUBSTITUTIONpublished at 21:19 Greenwich Mean Time 11 March21:19 GMT 11 MarchBallymena United 1-2 Larne Larne make a change straight after the goal with Mark Randall replacing Olatunde Bayode 103Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingGOAL - Ballymena United 1-2 Larnepublished at 21:16 Greenwich Mean Time 11 March21:16 GMT 11 MarchPaul O'Neill - 73mins Larne are in front after a spell of pressure culminates in Jordan McEneff's cross from the right falling to Olatunde Bayode He completely mishits his shot but it falls kindly for Paul O'Neill who keeps his cool to fire past Sean O'Neill Ballymena's defenders look longingly towards the assistant for offside but it doesn't come 2519Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingPostpublished at 21:12 Greenwich Mean Time 11 March21:12 GMT 11 MarchBallymena United 1-1 Larne Clever build-up play from Ballymena on the right flank sees Conor Barr clip a cross in but Success Edogun can't get the power on his header to trouble Rohan Ferguson. 54Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingPostpublished at 21:07 Greenwich Mean Time 11 March21:07 GMT 11 MarchBallymena United 1-1 Larne More uncertain defending from Ballymena presents an opportunity for the visitors but Olatunde Bayode rushes his shot and drags it wastefully wide of the near post 62Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingSUBSTITUTIONpublished at 21:06 Greenwich Mean Time 11 March21:06 GMT 11 MarchBallymena United 1-1 Larne Ballymena make a double change just after the hour mark bringing on Ben Kennedy and James Hood for Calvin McCurry and Aaron Jarvis 31Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingPostpublished at 21:05 Greenwich Mean Time 11 March21:05 GMT 11 MarchBallymena United 1-1 Larne Referee Tony Clarke attracts the ire of the home support by blowing for a late tackle just as Ballymena are breaking clear while the official finds himself explaining his decision to an angry posse of Ballymena players 12Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingPostpublished at 21:02 Greenwich Mean Time 11 March21:02 GMT 11 MarchBallymena United 1-1 Larne Some untidy defending by Ballymena almost lets Andy Ryan in but the half-time sub sees his effort blocked by Sean O'Neill 70Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingPostpublished at 21:00 Greenwich Mean Time 11 March21:00 GMT 11 MarchBallymena United 1-1 Larne The second half has been a bit more disjoined than the first with little by way of goalmouth action since the break 02Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingPostpublished at 20:57 Greenwich Mean Time 11 March20:57 GMT 11 MarchBallymena United 1-1 Larne Ballymena force a free kick from a virtually identical position to the one from which they scored that early goal Kian Corbally's delivery flicks off a Ballymena head for a goal kick 14Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingPostpublished at 20:53 Greenwich Mean Time 11 March20:53 GMT 11 MarchBallymena United 1-1 Larne Ballymena almost get lucky as Aaron Jarvis's overhit cross nearly catches out the back-pedalling Rohan Ferguson Larne's Scottish keeper is mightily relived to see the ball drop behind 24Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingprevious pagePage 1 of 3123next pageThis video can not be played Highlights: O'Neill winner helps Larne fight back to beat Sky Blues Larne kept up their pursuit of runner-up spot in the Irish Premiership by coming from behind to win 2-1 at Ballymena United. The Invermen's victory sees them move to within two points of second-placed Glentoran, who could restore their five-point cushion should they beat Glenavon in their game in hand over Gary Haveron's side on Wednesday evening. Defender Jordan McMullan fired the Sky Blues into an early lead with his second goal in successive games. Larne responded with a close-range strike from Tiarnan O'Connor before the break before Paul O'Neill fired the visitors in front in the second period. On a playing surface made difficult by a heavy pre-match rain shower, it was the home side who struck first in the eighth minute. Kian Corbally delivered a free kick from the left-hand side of Larne's penalty area and defender McMullan arrived unmarked to slide home a shot at the back post. The back-to-back league champions levelled on the half-hour when Jordan McEneff evaded a sliding tackle on the right hand side of the penalty area and delivered a low cross which O'Connor stretched to poke past Sean O'Neill from close range. Ballymena almost regained the lead virtually straight from the restart as Corbally burst into the penalty area but his shot cannoned to safety off the chest of keeper Rohan Ferguson, while Success Edogun's shot from an acute angle came back off the post. Larne introduced Andy Ryan at the interval and the Scottish striker almost took advantage of some hesitant Ballymena defending but keeper O'Neill was quickly off his line to block the effort. The visitors went in front on 73 minutes following a spell of pressure which culminated in McEneff's cross from the right falling to Olatunde Bayode. He completely mis-hit his shot but it fell into the path of Paul O'Neill who kept his cool to turn and fire past O'Neill. Ballymena thought they had forced an equaliser deep in injury time when Ben Kennedy fired home from close range following a corner but it was adjudged to be offside and the effort didn't count. Yellow Card at 42 minutesSubstitutesNumber 34 Wallace Match OfficialsReferee: Tony ClarkeAssistant Referee 1: Brian WilsonAssistant Referee 2: Gavin HegartyFourth Official: Niall DevlinHead to HeadSeason so farIrish Premiership Connor Martin has revealed plans for a new £11million factory in Ballymena as its brand The Essence Vault continues to dominate the fragrance dupe market The JAQ Group is a fast-growing e-commerce holding company comprising three fragrance brands and a 3PL (third-party logistics) company Ballymena native Connor Martin started out selling perfume in 2019 under the brand The Essence Vault He has achieved extraordinary growth with The Essence Vault becoming a £100million brand over the last five years Location of new proposed JAQ Group facility in Ballymena Connor re-invested by creating two further fragrance brands: • Thomson Carter - achieved £5m within 16 months of launch and selected as Rolls-Royce's Fragrance Choice; • Liquid London - reached £2m in only 7 months and named as TikTok's Beauty Brand of the Year Currently the JAQ Group is based at Craigstown Industrial Estate outside Randalstown and has since purchased the Industrial Estate and expanded into additional units The business success is reflected in a continually expanding workforce with 230 which increases to almost 300 around the Black Friday and pre-Christmas period CGI of proposed new JAQ Group production and distribution facility in Ballymena Keeping supply at pace with demand has now made it an imperative to acquire a significantly larger production facility JAQ Group has submitted planning application to Mid and East Antrim Borough Council now hoping to build a purpose-built facility for fragrance production at a site on Moorfields Road near the Larne Road roundabout This Ballymena site would become the Company's principal facility and would be used for making perfume and skincare products while the Randalstown site would also continue to operate “As our business continues to grow it’s important that we reinvest and develop our brands and our inspired fragrances The Jaq Group requires a purpose-built facility for production “The site we have proposed is off the Moorfields Road where we hope to construct a new manufacturing facility “We realise that this is only the beginning of a process but as a native of Ballymena I am keen to bring further investment and jobs to this area This development involves significant economic benefits – 300 new jobs and an investment of £11m in the construction of this facility.” It is expected that the planned development will provide significant economic benefits A Universidade Federal de Pernambuco possui três campi: o do Recife distribuídos na capital e no interior do estado agregam 100 cursos de graduação presenciais regulares: 83 cursos de graduaçã.. consiste em um sistema informatizado gerenciado pelo MEC para seleção de candidatos a vagas em cursos de gra.. A Coordenação de Concursos Docentes tem como atribuição gerir atividades relacionadas aos concursos públicos de provas e títulos para cargos de magist.. A Universidade Federal de Pernambuco possui 100 cursos de graduação distribuídos nos campi do Recife A Universidade Federal de Pernambuco oferece à comunidade acadêmica uma série de cursos seqüenciais que são um conjunto de atividades sistemáticas de .. A produção científica da Universidade Federal de Pernambuco é considerada uma das melhores do Brasil Promover a convergência entre as competências tecnológicas da UFPE e as demandas da sociedade gerando parcerias e interações baseadas na confiança e .. UFPE © Copyright 2025 - Todos os direitos reservados This website is using a security service to protect itself from online attacks. The action you just performed triggered the security solution. There are several actions that could trigger this block including submitting a certain word or phrase, a SQL command or malformed data. You can email the site owner to let them know you were blocked. Please include what you were doing when this page came up and the Cloudflare Ray ID found at the bottom of this page. Champions Linfield got their hands on the Gibson Cup after a 2-1 victory against Glentoran in the early kick-off at Windsor Park You can read about that game and get some reaction from the title celebrations here Larne missed the chance to leapfrog the Glens into second place as they drew 2-2 with Crusaders at Seaview Coleraine may mount a late surge for second after a dramatic 3-2 home win over Dungannon Swifts Cliftonville have all but secured seventh spot and a potential European play-off place after a thumping 5-0 win against Ballymena United at Solitude Carrick Rangers picked up a rare win as they beat Portadown 4-1 whilst Loughgall also got three points You can read our round-up report from those five games here We will have highlights and reaction to follow on the BBC Sport website but all I said to the boys today was look there are four games to go just try and finish the season on a positive note and if you go down on goal difference at least you go down fighting.\" On the victory: \"To be fair to them but they did something they haven't done enough of this year defend their box really well and be clinical with their chance There were questions about Kirk [McLaughlin] being offside but he still had plenty of work to do when he got the ball but it was a very good individual goal.\" On building for next year: \"The last few games The Bannsiders were out of the traps quick and early goals from Jack Scott and Dean Jarvis had them in a commanding position after just 10 minutes John McGovern's spectacular strike midway through the opening half reduced the home side's advantage before Adam Glenny's header levelled matters just after the hour Crusaders twice come from behind and may have even nabbed a late winner despite finishing with 10 men The ball breaks to the midfielder on the edge of the Dungannon penalty area and he curls a beautiful right foot shot past the despairing dive of Declan Dunne You can read about that game and get some reaction from the title celebrations here You can read our round-up report from those five games here 21Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharing'Good individual goal from McLaughlin'published at 17:25 British Summer Time 5 April17:25 BST 5 AprilFT: Glenavon 0-1 Loughgall Loughgall boss Darren Murphy speaking on Sportsound: On Loughgall being all but relegated: "I need more than a miracle to swing 21 goals [Loughgall have a far inferior goal difference than Carrick Rangers] just try and finish the season on a positive note and if you go down on goal difference at least you go down fighting." but they did something they haven't done enough of this year but it was a very good individual goal." On building for next year: "The last few games it gives me the chance to have conversations with players see who is up for the fight in the Championship and have a clearer picture of where the club is going to be." 00Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingWatch: McWoods lobs O'Neill for Reds' fifth goalpublished at 17:18 British Summer Time 5 April17:18 BST 5 AprilFT: Cliftonville 5-0 Ballymena United A sumptuous lob from substitute Eric McWoods for his second of the game and Cliftonville's fifth late on Watch: McWoods makes it 5-0 to the Reds at Solitude 61Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharing'Point gained for Larne'published at 17:14 British Summer Time 5 April17:14 BST 5 AprilFT: Crusaders 2-2 Larne I think it is a point gained for Larne because Crusaders bossed the second half I thought a draw was a fair result but it was fabulous entertainment 30Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingWatch: Glackin curls home late winnerpublished at 17:10 British Summer Time 5 April17:10 BST 5 AprilFT: Coleraine 3-2 Dungannon Swifts Jamie Glackin curls home a late winner for Coleraine at the Showgrounds 160Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingWatch: Linfield lift Gibson Cup for 57th time after Glens winpublished at 17:07 British Summer Time 5 April17:07 BST 5 AprilFT: Linfield 2-1 Glentoran Watch as Linfield lifted the Gibson Cup earlier after beating rivals Glentoran 2-1 in the Irish Premiership at Windsor Park READ MORE: Linfield lift Irish Premiership after Glentoran win Highlights: Linfield lift Gibson Cup after beating Glens at Windsor Park 33Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingWatch: Curran makes it 4-0 to Cliftonvillepublished at 17:00 British Summer Time 5 April17:00 BST 5 AprilFT: Cliftonville 5-0 Ballymena United Substitute Ryan Curran slots home a fourth for Cliftonville at Solitude Watch: Ryan Curran makes it 4-0 to Cliftonville 52Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingFULL-TIMEpublished at 16:58 British Summer Time 5 April16:58 BST 5 AprilColeraine 3-2 Dungannon Swifts All over at the Showgrounds where Jamie Glackin's late strike sees the hosts earn a dramatic 3-2 win over the Irish Cup finalists John McGovern's spectacular strike midway through the opening half reduced the home side's advantage before Adam Glenny's header levelled matters just after the hour The game seemed destined to finish all square but up stepped Glackin to curl a 25 yard right effort out of the reach of Declan Dunne and seal a famous victory 173Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingFULL-TIMEpublished at 16:56 British Summer Time 5 April16:56 BST 5 AprilCliftonville 5-0 Ballymena United A dominant second half performance sees Cliftonville run out easy winners at Solitude The Reds look well set to finish in seventh position and give themselves another potential route into Europe via the play-offs if they don't win the Irish Cup 124Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingFULL-TIMEpublished at 16:55 British Summer Time 5 April16:55 BST 5 AprilCrusaders 2-2 Larne Honours even after what was ultimately a great game Larne will perhaps a be a little more disappointed having lost the lead twice and the draw keeps them in third place 113Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingPostpublished at 16:54 British Summer Time 5 April16:54 BST 5 AprilColeraine 3-2 Dungannon Swifts A free-kick deep in added time for Dungannon 24Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingCLOSE!published at 16:53 British Summer Time 5 April16:53 BST 5 AprilCrusaders 2-2 Larne So close to a winner for the Crues but Ferguson makes a super save from Ross Clarke 29Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingFULL-TIMEpublished at 16:53 British Summer Time 5 April16:53 BST 5 AprilGlenavon 0-1 Loughgall Loughgall claim all three points with a gritty Kirk McLaughlin’s goal proved decisive just before the hour mark to get new boss Darren Murphy off to a winning start 55Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingWatch: McWoods makes it three for Redspublished at 16:53 British Summer Time 5 April16:53 BST 5 AprilCliftonville 5-0 Ballymena United Eric McWoods shows a striker's instinct to react quickest and poke the ball home Watch: Eric McWoods makes it 3-0 to Cliftonville 100Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingGOAL - Cliftonville 5-0 Ballymena Unitedpublished at 16:53 British Summer Time 5 April16:53 BST 5 AprilEric McWoods - 90+3mins There's still time for another Cliftonville goal as Eric McWoods outpaces the Ballymena defence again before coolly lifting the ball over the advancing Sean O'Neill 162Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingSUBSTITUTIONpublished at 16:52 British Summer Time 5 April16:52 BST 5 AprilCrusaders 2-2 Larne James Simpson replaces McKendry who looked to have been hurt in that challnge which led to the red card 22Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingGOAL - Cliftonville 4-0 Ballymena Unitedpublished at 16:51 British Summer Time 5 April16:51 BST 5 AprilRyan Curran - 90+2mins Ryan Curran puts some more gloss on the scoreline as he collects a through ball from Stephen McGuinness before neatly passing the ball into the corner of the net 83Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingFULL-TIMEpublished at 16:51 British Summer Time 5 April16:51 BST 5 AprilCarrick Rangers 4-1 Portadown Goals galore at Taylors Avenue as Carrick Rangers gain all three crucial points 93Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingPostpublished at 16:49 British Summer Time 5 April16:49 BST 5 AprilCrusaders 2-2 Larne 70Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingGOAL - Coleraine 3-2 Dungannon Swiftspublished at 16:49 British Summer Time 5 April16:49 BST 5 AprilJamie Glackin - 91 mins 279Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingprevious pagePage 1 of 13123456…13next pageThis video can not be played Highlights: Cliftonville v Ballymena United Watch the highlights as Cliftonville see off Ballymena United 5-0 in their Irish Premiership game at Solitude Read the report here Corrigan at 89 minutesSubstituteshome team Corrigan at 89 minutesSubstitutesNumber 37 McMullan Match OfficialsReferee: Steven GreggAssistant Referee 1: Shane CorriganAssistant Referee 2: Niall McGuinnessFourth Official: Ben McmasterHead to HeadSeason so farIrish Premiership The ad-free version is ready for purchase on iOS mobile app today we couldn't find that page";var n=e.querySelector("h2");return n&&n.remove(),{staticContent:e,title:t}},d=function(e){var t=document.createElement("button");return t.innerText=e,t.classList.add("error-page-button"),t},f=function(e){var t=document.createElement("div");t.id="recirculation-404",t.classList.add("brand-hint-bg");var n="\n \n \n Tick here if you would like us to send you the author’s response 1 MAY 2025BookmarkGeneral view of runners and supporters of the 2024 Moy Park Belfast City Marathon in Belfast city centre (Image: Kelvin Boyes/Press Eye)The countdown to the Moy Park Belfast City Marathon 2025 thousands will take to the streets of Belfast to complete the 26.2 mile race you may be wondering how you are going to arrange your travel to or around the city on race day Read more: Belfast City Marathon 2025 LIVE tracker: Official results from this year's race - as it happens Read more: Full list of road closures for Belfast City Marathon 2025 All transport for the marathon is free for spectators and participants - excluding rail services Here is what you need to know about transport and travel ahead of the Belfast City Marathon 2025: Getting to the start line - a shuttle bus will be available from Belfast City Hall (outside SS Moore’s) 07:00am – 8:00am and Lanyon Place Train Station 7:30am – 8:00am to the Start Line Spectator Transport from Stormont - a shuttle bus will pick spectators from Massey Avenue to Ormeau Park after the start of the race at Stormont A shuttle bus service will run 8:00am – 10:00am from Annadale Embankment at Dunnes Stores to drop runners off at their designated relay changeover point: Getting back to Belfast City Centre - a shuttle bus will transport participants from Ormeau Embankment to Belfast City Centre This service will run from 11:45am – 4:00pm Getting back to Stormont – a complimentary Glider service is available from SS Moore’s Chichester Street or Wellington Street to Stormont Please note that Stormont car parks will close from 5:00pm To help people going to the Belfast City Marathon on Sunday 4 May 2025 there will be early morning trains from Derry~Londonderry These additional services cannot be booked in advance and standard fares will apply Parking will be available at the start line within the Stormont Complex for FREE Please note the Upper Newtownards Road from the Stormont Entrance will close from around 8.00am to facilitate traffic management solutions for the start of the event Access will be from the Dundonald side ONLY Parking around Ormeau Park/Finish Area/City Centre – parking will be available in Belfast City Council Car Park To source other suitable parking please follow this link https://visitbelfast.com/plan/car-parking-in-belfast/ Story SavedYou can find this story in  My Bookmarks.Or by navigating to the user icon in the top right. Kyle McClean's last gasp equaliser salvages a point for the Blues who extend their lead at the top of the Irish Premiership to 20 points for the time being Paul McEleney put Ballymena in front from the penalty spot in the 91st minute Linfield have found an equaliser right at the death The first chance sees the ball cleared off the line from a corner with Sam Roscoe then striking the crossbar with a header moments later Sustained pressure from the Blues now as they go in search of a winner Referee Steven Gregg also awards McMurray a yellow card for his foul on Jamie Mulgrew that resulted in his injury Watch as Kyle McClean leaves it until the 100th minute to equalise 56Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingWatch: McEleny converts from the spotpublished at 21:49 Greenwich Mean Time 7 February21:49 GMT 7 FebruaryFT: Ballymena United 2-2 Linfield Here's the penalty that gave Ballymena an injury-time advantage Watch: Ballymena take the lead from the spot 510Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingFULL-TIMEpublished at 21:44 Greenwich Mean Time 7 February21:44 GMT 7 FebruaryBallymena United 2-2 Linfield Referee Steven Gregg blows his whistle and that's it at The Ballymena Showgrounds Kyle McClean's last gasp equaliser salvages a point for the Blues before McClean breaks Sky Blues hearts right at the death 118Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingGOAL - Ballymena United 2-2 Linfieldpublished at 21:41 Greenwich Mean Time 7 February21:41 GMT 7 FebruaryKyle McClean - 90+10 mins Kyle McClean finds the back of the net to salvage a point for the Blues with the last kick of the game 5446Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingPostpublished at 21:39 Greenwich Mean Time 7 February21:39 GMT 7 FebruaryBallymena United 2-1 Linfield It's all Linfield now as they go in search of an equaliser The Sky Blues are defending well so far and look organised at the back 184Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingGOAL - Ballymena United 2-1 Linfieldpublished at 21:32 Greenwich Mean Time 7 February21:32 GMT 7 FebruaryPatrick McEleney - 90+1 mins Patrick McEleney steps up and sends David Walsh the wrong way making no mistake from the spot as he finds the bottom right-hand corner 4638Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingPENALTYpublished at 21:31 Greenwich Mean Time 7 February21:31 GMT 7 FebruaryBallymena United 1-1 Linfield 2523Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingYELLOW CARDpublished at 21:30 Greenwich Mean Time 7 February21:30 GMT 7 FebruaryBallymena United 1-1 Linfield Caolan Loughran is shown a yellow card for a foul on Callum Morrison 42Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingHITS THE WOODWORKpublished at 21:25 Greenwich Mean Time 7 February21:25 GMT 7 FebruaryBallymena United 1-1 Linfield Linfield twice think they've found a second goal Just five minutes left on the clock plus stoppage time 82Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingSUBSTITUTIONSpublished at 21:22 Greenwich Mean Time 7 February21:22 GMT 7 FebruaryBallymena United 1-1 Linfield Jonathan McMurray's night is cut short as he leaves the field on a stretcher Success Edogun is also replaced by Luke hawe 11Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingPostpublished at 21:18 Greenwich Mean Time 7 February21:18 GMT 7 FebruaryBallymena United 1-1 Linfield Jonathan McMurray fouls Jamie Mulgrew and looks to have done himself some damage in the process The Ballymena striker instantly goes to ground in pain holding his left knee It looks like McMurray will require a stretcher 22Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingPostpublished at 21:16 Greenwich Mean Time 7 February21:16 GMT 7 FebruaryBallymena United 1-1 Linfield 15 minutes left on the clock and it's still all to play for at The Ballymena Showgrounds Can either side find a second goal and snatch the three points in the final quarter of an hour 40Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingSUBSTITUTIONpublished at 21:09 Greenwich Mean Time 7 February21:09 GMT 7 FebruaryBallymena United 1-1 Linfield Jonathan McMurray replaces Donal Rocks for the hosts 23Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingYELLOW CARDpublished at 21:08 Greenwich Mean Time 7 February21:08 GMT 7 FebruaryBallymena United 1-1 Linfield Andrew Scott is the first player to be booked by referee Steven Gregg as he is cautioned for his late challenge on Chris McKee 33Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingSUBSTITUTIONpublished at 21:06 Greenwich Mean Time 7 February21:06 GMT 7 FebruaryBallymena United 1-1 Linfield Jim Ervin now looks to his bench for the first time of the evening as he introduces Aaron Jarvis with Duncan Idehen being replaced 22Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingPostpublished at 21:04 Greenwich Mean Time 7 February21:04 GMT 7 FebruaryBallymena United 1-1 Linfield Success Edogun shoots from outside the area but his effort goes well wide of the right-hand upright The January signing has looked very lively for the Sky Blues when he's received the ball 32Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingMorrison makes Linfield debut Mulgrew returnspublished at 21:02 Greenwich Mean Time 7 February21:02 GMT 7 FebruaryBallymena United 1-1 Linfield David Healy looks to his bench for the first time on the hour mark and it's Callum Morrison who is introduced for his debut as he replaces Ethan McGee Jamie Mulgrew is also brought on in place of Cameron Ballantyne 103Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingPostpublished at 20:57 Greenwich Mean Time 7 February20:57 GMT 7 FebruaryBallymena United 1-1 Linfield Daniel Lafferty tries his luck from a free-kick in a dangerous position but his effort is easily gathered by David Walsh who saves comfortably 31Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingPostpublished at 20:50 Greenwich Mean Time 7 February20:50 GMT 7 FebruaryBallymena United 1-1 Linfield Chris McKee comes close to restoring Linfield's lead as his left footed strike from inside the area takes a deflection and goes behind for a corner Matthew Fitzpatrick does well to find Kyle McClean down the right who crossed to the back post where Euan East recycles the ball before McKee shoots and sees his effort deflected just behind Nothing comes from the corner but the Blues have started the second half with real intent 82Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingKICK-OFFpublished at 20:46 Greenwich Mean Time 7 February20:46 GMT 7 FebruaryBallymena United 1-1 Linfield We're back underway for the second half under The Ballymena Showground lights No changes from either manager at the break 61Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingprevious pagePage 1 of 212next pageThis video can not be played Kyle McClean salvaged a point for Irish Premiership leaders Linfield with an 100th-minute equaliser at the Ballymena Showgrounds. After Ballymena's Donal Rocks had cancelled out Matthew Fitzpatrick's Linfield opener in the first half, Patrick McEleney thought he had scored the winner from the penalty spot in added time only to be denied by McClean's even later strike. Linfield hit the front on 12 minutes as Fitzpatrick pounced on a misplaced Duncan Idehen pass, slotting home beyond Sean O'Neill and into the bottom right-hand corner for his ninth league goal of the season. Just as the visitors looked to be asserting themselves, Ballymena levelled through Rocks after a swift counter attack caught Linfield out. Sam Roscoe came closest to putting the visitors back in front, with his towering header smashing the crossbar with less than 10 minutes left on the clock. Instead it was the Sky Blues who hit the front as McEleney made no mistake from the spot after Chris McKee had brought down Andrew Scott inside the penalty area. Just as the Sky Blues thought they had secured all three points, up popped McClean to rescue a point for Linfield who extended their lead at the top of the Irish Premiership to 20 points with their nearest challengers still to play on Saturday and Sunday. Yellow Card at 68 minutesSubstituteshome team Yellow Card at 68 minutesSubstitutesNumber 30 Mulgrew Match OfficialsReferee: Steven GreggAssistant Referee 1: Adam JeffreyAssistant Referee 2: Ryan KelseyFourth Official: Declan HassanHead to HeadSeason so farIrish Premiership This website is using a security service to protect itself from online attacks The action you just performed triggered the security solution There are several actions that could trigger this block including submitting a certain word or phrase You can email the site owner to let them know you were blocked Please include what you were doing when this page came up and the Cloudflare Ray ID found at the bottom of this page The Official website of Glentoran Football Club / Pride of East Belfast  Glentoran stretched their unbeaten run to 16 games but had to settle for a 1-1 draw against a stern Ballymena United at the Showgrounds in tonight’s Sports Direct Premiership tie Christie Pattisson struck in the second half for the visitors but Joe Moore grabbed an equaliser for Ballymena United four minutes into stoppage time With only five minutes on the clock the home side could have taken the lead but for an excellent intervention from David Gyollai in goal Calvin McCurry impressed down the right before he squared for Success Edogun at the near post but Glens' goalkeeper Gyollai reacted superbly to push the ball away from goal Glentoran had to wait until almost the half-hour mark before they had their opening opportunity Danny Amos took a short free-kick to Joe Thomson but the January signing failed to test Sean O'Neill in the United goal with his effort Then moments later Jordan Jenkins went even closer reacted well to a breaking ball in the area before firing a shot on goal forcing goalkeeper O'Neill into a save at full stretch as he tipped the ball onto the post Dylan Connolly was lively throughout with some exciting runs down the Glentoran right but his night was to be ended just before the break with an injury in an evenly matched first period Half-Time: Ballymena United 0 – 0 Glentoran As the second-half began Cameron Palmer almost broke the deadlock for the visitors with a delightful effort from the edge of the area that went just the wrong side of the post the Belfast faithful did not have to wait long for the opener The impressive Pattisson got on the end of a long ball from Amos and he coolly slotted home past O'Neill from 12 yards On 75 minutes substitute Nathaniel Ferris went close to opening his Glentoran account as he beat Daniel Lafferty in the corner before making his way into the box but his shot was blocked on the United line and forced out for a corner Ballymena almost nabbed an equaliser five minutes from time but that man Jenkins was on hand at the right end of the pitch to hook the ball away off his own line the leveller would come deep into injury time as Moore struck to deny Declan Devine’s men all three points Full-Time: Ballymena United 1 – 1 Glentoran Site funded by the Glentoran 'Our Club, Our Community' programme and developed by Avec Solutions We Are Ports TV highlights of Portadown 2 Ballymena United 1 yesterday evening at Shamrock Park in the Sports Direct Premiership Please include what you were doing when this page came up and the Cloudflare Ray ID found at the bottom of this page.