Bumper crowd expected for United v Rangers XI match

Ballymena United goalkeeper Dwayne Nelson pictured with Rangers legend Ian Durrant and club officials at the the launch of the Ballymena v Rangers XI game.

The match, which takes place at the Showgrounds this coming Tuesday night, July 21 (7.45pm) will double up as a testimonial match for long-serving United goalkeeper Dwayne Nelson.

Due to the high volume of demand for tickets over the holiday period , this match is now “pay at the gate”.

The Rangers team will be managed by Ibrox ‘nine-in-a-row’ legend Ian Durrant who will be assisted by former Northern Ireland international striker Andy Kirk.

The Rangers team includes several young stars who have already made competitive debuts for the first team and also highly rated prospects like Ryan Sinnamon, goalkeeper Robby McCrorie, centre forward Calum Gallagher; Luca Gasparotto, a Canadian international centre back and new signings Tom Lang and Jordan Gibson.

All of the players will be looking to impress and enhance their opportunity to progress to new Rangers manager Mark Warburton’s senior squad.

Match Sponsor will be Tobermore Concrete, while the match ball wil be sponsored by Ballymena Legends Loyal and Clough Loyal Glasgow Rangers Supporters’ Clubs.

Match worn Ballymena United testimonial jerseys can be purchased at a nominal fee of £30.00 by contacting Ronnie McDowell on 07712867019.

Thanks to Alan Francey of Francey Coach Hire and McBurney Transport for their assistance with travel arrangements.

Ball Boys will be Ballymena United Youth Academy Under 11’s who are competing at The Foyle Cup from 20th – 24th July.

There will be a collection for the Mark Gilmore Memorial Charity to raise funds for Leukaemia and Lymphoma NI.