Irish cup decision lifts mood at United dinner

Given the events of earlier in the week, when it had seemed the club would face expulsion from the JJB Sports Irish Cup in a row over midfielder Alan Davidson’s eligibility, the outcome of Thursday’s IFA meeting – where United successfully argued their case – totally transformed the mood of Saturday’s function.

Unsurprisingly, that - and the possibility of Newry appealing the decision - was the hot topic of discussion at many of the tables and the legal expertise employed by the club was touched upon by Master of Ceremonies Edwin McLaughlin.

“Central to the preparation of Ballymena’s case was Nigel McIlrath and he did a serious job for the club on that,” said Edwin.

Reflecting on yet another sold-out function, club chairman Robert Cupples said: “It is great at this time to see the support we have.

“We have made a few changes in recent times we hope to see some success from that,” added Robert.

The club has thanked the following organisations and individuals who took tables at the event, which was sponsored by Alan Francey Coach Hire:

McBurney Transport; Ballymena Spurs Supporters’ Club; Ballymena United Development Committee; Blair International Transport; Cloughmills NI Supporters’ Club; D&V Network Solutions; Dave Harris & friends; Dennison Commercials; Dunlop & Hamilton; GM Landscapes; Gordon McIlrath Solicitors; Harry Millar & friends; Ian McKeown & friends; LDW NI Limited; McCaig Collim; North Antrim DUP; Paramount BUSC; Pattons; RGM Financial Services; Rosspark Hotel; Seven Towers SC; Stardust Amusements; System Controls; Slemish Tavern; The Young Guns; WS Mercers; White Contracts; William Hamill & Sons; Wilson McCurdy Haulage; 24:7 Rentals.

The £250 First Score competition was Derek McClintock, a guest of RGM Financial Services. His guess was 29 mins 29 secs, while the actual time of the first goal was 29 mins 21 secs.