CHAMPIONSHIP TWO: Reid brace not enough to see off Chimney Corner

The Chimney Corner keeper denied Con O’Boyle minutes later when he pulled off a stunning save to deny the visitors for a second time.

The game was delayed for 16 minutes following a serious injury to a Chimney Corner player.

When the game restarted Hanna brought down Lyons resulting in a penalty for Ballymoney.

Buckley struck the spot kick to Harbinson’s right, but his effort hadn’t the desired pace to beat the keeper.

Despite the set back, Ballymoney continued to dominate the half.

Buckley and Lyons combined again, and Lyons forced Harbinson into another great save.

With half time approaching Willigan gave the home team the lead on 48mins against the run of play.

The home side got off to the ideal start, hitting the net from a penalty just after the restart.

Despite being 2-0 down, Ballymoney fought hard and were well in the game creating a number of chances.

Despite the pressure Ballymoney had to wait until the 70th minute before Reid nipped in and planted the ball in the net past Harbinson.

The visitors continued to press and were rewarded again on 77 minutes when Reid headed an opportunist goal past Harbinson to score a well deserved equaliser.

Both teams attacked and counter attacked, and on 88 minutes a defensive mix up saw Willigan striking the winner past Getty.

Ballymoney United: John Getty. Dempsey. Buckley. Wilkinson. Chris Getty. Hugh OgBoyle. McClelland (Capt). Kirgan. Lyons. Ried. Con Og Boyle: Subs: Magee. Fleming. Craig.

Ballymoney boss Paul Gaston was disappointed with the result, but managed to take a few positives from the game.

“It was just one of those days.

“We had so many chances, but they went in 1-0 up at the break.

“They came out with their tails high for the second half and the inevitable happened,” admitted Gaston.

“On the plus side we introduced Jack Magee to the squad on Saturday. He came on and set up two goals. He’s got great pace and he’s eager to learn,” admitted Gaston.

Ballymoney entertain Ballyclare Comrades this Saturday, in what the Ballymoney boss is expecting to be a tough test: “ No game is easy in this league.

“We are a very young side, our oldest player is only 27.

“Teams like Ballyclare, Lurgan Celtic and Knockbreda have squads of experienced players, they are the top teams in the league, so it will be a tough game for us.

LEGENDS NIGHT

DID you pull on the colours of Ballymoney United?

The Club are inviting former players to a special night next month.

The event, ‘Faces from the Past’ will be a gathering of past players, managers and back room staff, and anyone else associated with the Club.

On the night, Saturday, November 17, there will be old photos, food, music and plenty of football chat.

If you would like to be part of this unique occasion get in touch via the Ballymoney United Facebook page or call 07500661006 or 07753357238.

Players are asked to confirm their attendance for food purposes.