United open day is hailed a success

Not even the drizzle and a 2-1 defeat for the Sky Blues at the hands of the Northern Ireland Junior International side could dampen the enthusiasm of the good number of United fans who turned out.

"It was a good day, there were quite a number of new home shirts sold and there is a good level of interest in the various items of training and leisurewear," said United Development Committee member Nigel McIlrath.

Nigel has thanked the following people for their part in making the day a success: Mayor of Ballymena, Councillor Maurice Mills, who presented prizes; Don Stirling (Stirling Trophies) for providing trophies; Andy Nelson for keeping goal in the penalty kick competition; Ballymena United Youth Academy and Carniny Youth for their footballing demonstration; and all the members of the Development Committee for their hard work.

The new red United away shirts will be available for this Saturday's home match against Scottish Premier League side St Mirren (3pm).

Before then, United face Newington YC tonight (Tuesday, 7pm) at Brantwood's Skegoneil Avenue ground, while a United side travels to Broughshane on Wednesday night to take on neighbours Raceview (7pm).