Ballymena & Provincial League round-up: Ryan’s late equaliser for Carniny puts smile on dad’s face

The junior McCartney scored a dramatic late equaliser for Carniny Amateurs’ 2-2 draw at title-chasing Brantwood – a result which also had the knock-on effect of giving neighbours Raceview’s hopes of winning the Michelin Athletic Club-sponsored championship a helping hand on Saturday.

It now looks as though the title could be a straight shootout between Raceview and Newtowne, who have opened up a 13 point gap on Raceview, although the Broughshane men have five games in hand.

Brantwood remain second, 11 points behind Newtowne but with two games less played than the North West side.

Meanwhile, Clough Rangers Athletic’s match against FC Ballynure was abandoned after 35 minutes, with no score, following a dispute with FC Ballynure players over a decision made by the Referee.

The case will now be judged by the IFA and League on receipt of the referee report and the views of the team are taken into consideration.

For a full round-up of this week’s action, including match reports from the local sides, see this week’s Times.