Rangers XI set for Ballymena for Dwayne’s testimonial

Ballymena United goalkeeper Dwayne Nelson announces details of his forthcoming testimonial match against a Glasgow Rangers XI with former Ibrox midfielder Ian Durrant, who will manage the Rangers side. Also included are United officials Ronnie McDowell, Davy Douglas and Alan Francey.

Dwayne Nelson admits he is thrilled to have secured a Glasgow Rangers XI as the opponents for his testimonial next month.

The Ibrox giants will send a side to the Warden Street Showgrounds on July 21 to honour the long-serving Ballymena United goalkeeper.

Nelson has made more than 200 appearances between the posts for the Sky Blues since making his debut as a 16-year-old under Kenny Shiels’ management.

And it is Nelson’s close friendship with Shiels’ son Dean - the Rangers and Northern Ireland striker - which has been pivotal in getting the Glasgow giants to the Showgrounds.

“‘Dixie’ has been very good at driving the whole thing forward at Rangers and I’m very grateful to him for his help.

“I’m really pleased that Rangers will be coming to Ballymena and I think it will be a great occasion.

“Rangers obviously have a massive following in Northern Ireland and I’m hopeful that people from across the country will want to see them in action.

“I’m really grateful to Davy Douglas and the other members of my testimonial committee who have put so much work into not only this game but all the other events as well.

“The same thing goes for all the people who have turned up to support those events,” added Dwayne.

The Rangers XI - which will be managed by former Ibrox midfielder Ian Durrant and which is expected to include several players with first team experience - will also play Coleraine during their visit to the Province.