Ballymena United Football CLUB NEWS

---

      Ballymena United play the last of four straight home games on Saturday afternoon when they face Carrick Rangers in the penultimate game before the split.

This blitz of matches at the Showgrounds for United has so far yielded just two points from nine available, including last weekend's 1-1 draw with Portadown. It looked set to be a loss when Eamon Fyfe's late penalty gave the Ports a lead, but the Braidmen snatched a point in added time when substitute Jack O'Reilly pounced on an error and brilliantly fired under Alex Moore to grab his third of the season. Two of those strikes have come in the league and both have now come against Portadown, home and away.

Ahead of the visit of Carrick this weekend, the Sky Blues remain in tenth spot, a place they have now occupied for some time. It was a busy midweek for those around United and results were kind to Ballymena, as Portadown, Bangor and Crusaders were all defeated. The Crues stay five points behind United in eleventh and face a key game this weekend with a resurgent Glenavon, who sit three points further back. With the Ports and Bangor now a game ahead of the Braidmen, a win on Saturday for United would see them jump up to ninth over Bangor and close the gap on eighth to two points, as things remain tight in the bottom half, approaching the split.

Stephen Baxter's Carrick side entered 2026 in the thick of it at the bottom of the table, not helped by a 7-0 loss to Glentoran in early January, but since then, they've been on a tremendous run. The Gers went nine without defeat in the league, including six wins, with that form only halted last time out against Glentoran, who inflicted a rare defeat on Carrick in a 1-0 scoreline. In the middle of that run, Carrick also secured the Co. Antrim Shield crown at Seaview, in a penalty shoot-out victory over Cliftonville. 

Carrick now sit up in seventh spot in the standings, where they perch comfortably with a sizeable buffer, but the gap to the top six is six points, with just six left to play for, meaning it's likely another meeting with Carrick is to come this campaign.

The most recent instalments of this fixture have been incredibly close to call and in the last seven encounters, only once has there been more than one goal in it, that came in 2024 when United scored four in Carrickfergus. This season, the sides met a couple of days before Christmas on Warden Street and took a point each. Aidan Steele had given Carrick a half time lead, only for Daire O'Connor to score his first in sky blue to grab a point in the second period. The other meeting this season went United's way at Taylors Avenue, when Kym Nelson and Ryan McNickle scored in a 2-1 win. Ballymena are unbeaten in the last three against the Gers and as they look to put some late form together, extending that run to four with a win at the Showgrounds would be a good place to start.

Match Preview by Phillip McPeake.

Ballymena United and Playr-Fit have teamed up to bring supporters a brand-new

spring leisurewear collection.

The 2026 Spring Collection is built for Ballymena United fans who represent the

Sky Blues wherever they go. From the terraces to the town, there’s something in

this range for every supporter.

Here’s what’s available at www.skyblue-superstore.co.uk

• The Anthem Jacket comes in two colours; a crisp white and a classic sky blue both priced at £45. Sharp, versatile, and unmistakably United.

• The Retro Softshell (£45) and Retro Hoody (£45) tap into that old-school Ballymena feel with a modern finish. These are the kind of pieces that never go out of style.

• The McBurney Transport Retro 80’s Shirt at £50. A nod to the club’s heritage and the latest remake of the shirts of yesteryear.

• Rounding out the collection is the All Navy 1/4 Zip at £40; the perfect everyday layer for any time of year.

And if that wasn’t enough, we’ve got a special deal running alongside the launch:

all current-season away replica shirts are now available at half price until the end

of the season at just £25. If you haven’t picked one up yet, now’s your chance.

The full collection is available now through the club’s official shop and online

store. Sizes are limited, so don’t sleep on it.

Come on Sky Blues.
     

 Ian's a Major Winner

Ian Robinson (A7479) from Harryville has been a Sports Bond member for many years and had only previously won a £10 minor prize, on the agency of Maurice Anderson. However, this week Ian became a £50 Major winner for the first time - well done Ian!

Also in Harryville, one of our agents, Karen Rainey, lives on the Moat Road. This week Karen had a Major winner with Angela Rainey (A3089). Angela was our only lady member who won this week. The Harryville area also saw a £10 minor winner with James Swann (A 8772) on the agency of David Brown. 

Outside of the Harryville area, there were £10 wins for Benny McGarry (B9573) on the agency of Brett Thompson. Alan Sloan (A3096) who pays by standing order was also a £10 winner.

Jackpot numbers 1 7 10 15 saw no winner and the Jackpot is £200 for this week's  draw .Join Sports Bond now on 07831 803970. 

First Score 

Kenny Morrison, a guest at the Corporate dinner on Saturday past, had the winning First Score time of 64 minutes (63 mins). Kenny enjoyed his day out even more when he collected £50 from promoter, Brian Thompson. Had the goal been scored 10 seconds later, then Doreen Mooney would have been the winner as she had 65 minutes. Hard luck for Doreen. 

There will be no First Score at Solitude this weekend. However, there is a First Score for the Carabao Cup final between Manchester City and Arsenal. Cards are priced at £2.

                                                                                                                  Cash Call                      

Saturday saw the culmination of this year's Cash Call. It certainly proved to be dramatic, in quite a few ways. Oran Kearney was on hand to do the draw with Chairman Chris Selwood making the call. It was dramatic as it required 5 calls before a winner was found. The winner in the end was Andy Millar, proprietor of the Diamond Bar in Ahoghill. Two years ago, at the first Cash Call, Andy's number was called out and he answered "Hello" and was eliminated. However, on this occasion he was word perfect, answering with "COME ON SKY BLUES" to win £1000. On Saturday morning, Brian Thompson collected 3 Tickets at the Diamond in the names OF Andy Millar, Jackie Millar and Kieran McLaughin. Andy's proved to be the winner! 

The draw was streamed on YouTube. Unfortunately, there were sound issues with the livestream that we were not aware of at the time. We apologise for this and any inconvenience it may have caused.

Once again, the Cash Call promotion was a   great success. Thanks to all who bought tickets and to the following individuals, who were exceptional in sales of tickets; Brian Campbell, Alastair Shaw, Margaret Downey, Rosemary Lynn, Robbie Purdey, Sammy Bones and Aaron Todd. It was another successful promotion and roll on to the next Cash Call. 

  Ballymena United, one of the leading clubs in the Sports Direct Premiership, has appointed communications consultancy Clearbox to support the team’s marketing and communications campaigns. 

Clearbox will support Ballymena United on the development and implementation of a new communications strategy, brand positioning and key messages. Clearbox will also support Ballymena United through a digital marketing campaign, designed to increase match ticket sales.

The Clearbox team brings a wealth of experience to Ballymena United. The Clearbox team will be led by Neil Coleman, former Head of Communications and Digital Innovation at the Northern Ireland Football League, and John Megaughin, who has worked with sporting organisations like the Professional Darts Corporation, FIFA, UEFA and the International Olympic Committee.

Speaking on the appointment, Ballymena United Chairman Chris Selwood said: “Ballymena United is on a mission to become one of the leading sports organisations in the UK and Ireland. After emerging from financial difficulty two years ago, we’re now debt-free, ambitious and building something special. As a club with the best facilities in the league, we want partners who are the best at what they do and that’s why we’ve partnered with Clearbox.

“The agency works with some of the biggest brands in the world, and has a unique understanding of communications in sport. We’re excited to be working with Clearbox and have already seen the impact of their professionalism, knowledge and creativity.”

Clearbox’s Neil Coleman added: “Having spent years at the heart of Northern Ireland football communications, I know exactly what it takes to cut through in this space. Ballymena United is a club with real history, a passionate fanbase, and a board that's genuinely driving the club forward. Working with our Clearbox team to help deliver that vision is something I'm really looking forward to. We know this league, we know these fans, and we know how to get results.”

John Megaughin from Clearbox said: “Neil and I have spent our lives on the Ballymena terraces, so to be stepping inside the club in a professional capacity is something genuinely special. Ballymena United is a giant of the Irish League and a club that's clearly on the move with a board that means business. We're honoured to be partnering with Chris, Liam and the team to build on that momentum, and we're confident we can make a real difference on and off the pitch.”
 

Clearbox is a leading communications consultancy that’s spent many years delivering standout communications for clients across local, national, and global markets. Clearbox reframes brand and business challenges to spark long-term innovation, and its team works with curiosity, creativity, and delivers seriously impactful results. Clearbox’s current clients include Amazon, AWS, Deliveroo, Morelli’s Ice Cream, Ring, SistersIN, The NI Wedding Director, Toast and WellFest.

For further information, please contact BUFC@clearboxcommunications.com

Ballymena United Football Club is pleased to announce the appointment of Philip Kyle to its Board of Directors.

Philip brings extensive football administration experience and professional expertise to the role, having served as Chairman of the Club's Management Committee since 2023. His appointment to the Board represents a natural progression following his significant contributions to the development of the Club over the past two years.

A passionate supporter of the club, he has been actively involved with both the Youth Academy and Senior Club for 19 years across two separate spells. Additionally, his experience spans roles at NIFL Championship clubs including Ballyclare Comrades, where he served as Director and as part of the backroom staff (2021-2022), and Dundela (2022-2023), providing him with valuable insight into football operations across different levels of football in Northern Ireland.

Professionally, Philip serves as an Asset Performance Engineer at NI Water, where he has held senior management positions. His expertise in corporate governance, budget management, and project delivery will prove invaluable to the Club's continued development.

Philip Kyle commented: "I am honoured to join the Board of Directors at Ballymena United Football Club. This club has been a huge part of my life, and I am committed to using my experience both in football administration and my professional career to help drive the Club forward. I'm excited to contribute to achieving the ambitious goals we have set for Ballymena United's future."

Chris Selwood, Chairman of Ballymena United Football Club, said: "We are delighted to welcome Philip to the Board. His dedication to Ballymena United is unquestionable, and he brings a unique combination of football knowledge and corporate governance expertise that will strengthen our Board as we continue to build for the future. His appointment reflects our commitment to having people who are passionate about this Club and its future in key positions."

The appointment takes effect immediately.

Ballymena United’s current Board of Directors is as follows; Chris Selwood (Chair), Liam Wilson (Vice-Chair), John Anderson, Gary McConnell, Ronnie McDowell, Emma Russell, Ivan Russell. 

"The plans Oran and the Board have for the place, where they want to go and how they want to do things, they really interested me to come here" 

Hear from Fuad Sule for the first time as a Sky Blue following his recent arrival at United...

https://youtu.be/GnUJ-_6-Mt0

Ballymena United were delighted to complete the deadline day signing of Fuad Sule from Indonesian club Peris Solo.

The talented 29-year-old midfielder has been regarded as one of the top talents in the Irish League over recent seasons, having starred for both Glentoran and Larne, winning the Gibson Cup in 2023 with the Inver Park club.

Pending international clearance, Fuad will be available for selection for Tuesday’s re-arranged Premiership game with Crusaders at the Showgrounds.

(Our thanks to Darren Crawford for kindly capturing these photographs).

Ballymena United is thrilled to announce the signing of defender Shane McEleney from Glentoran.

The 34 year old arrives on Warden Street having spent a year at the Oval, where he made 27 appearances for Declan Devine's side. 

Following a successful six year spell with hometown club Derry City, Shane's career has taken him to St Pat's, Ottawa Fury, Larne, Finn Harps and back to Derry City, before his time in East Belfast.

Shane will join up with his brother, Patrick, at the Showgrounds and will be available for selection for the home game with Portadown this coming weekend.

Speaking to the club for the first time after confirming his signing, Shane said: "I'm delighted to get this over the line and have a fresh start. I had a conversation with Oran and Liam and obviously Patrick too. They were excited to get me in and I was excited to join."

McEleney brings a wealth of quality and experience both on and off the pitch and is keen to add that to our squad: "I just want to be playing football matches and helping the team. I'm an experienced player and I want to use that to help the younger players. It's a young, enthusiastic squad with a few senior pros and I can add to that and hopefully help kick us on. There's a lot to play for and I'm looking forward to getting started."

Ballymena United is pleased to add to our goalkeeping options with the signing of Brad Wade on a short term deal.

The 25 year old arrives on Warden Street after leaving Waterford at the end of their season and will join Declan Breen in United's goalkeeping group following the retirement of Sean O'Neill this week. 

Wade, a prolific shot stopper, represented a number of clubs in England before travelling across the Irish Sea to Cork City in 2024, making 36 appearances as he helped guide Cork to the First Division title. Brad then made the move to Premier Division side Waterford in January 2025.

Speaking to the club following his signing, Wade outlined he wants to make his time here count. He said: "After speaking to the manager and those around the club, I'm really excited to be here and excited to get playing again until the end of the season. There's massive games coming up that I'm looking forward to being a part of and trying to help bring success."

Speaking on his strengths, Brad said: "I'm good with my feet and a good shot stopper. I like to communicate with everyone else and make their job easier."

Manager Oran Kearney also spoke about bringing a goalkeeper to the club: "When we knew Sean was going, we knew we had to bring someone in. Brad came onto our radar and has been training with Derry City and he has a good number of games behind him." He continued: "We got a good insight into him from Sean Murray, who he played with at Cork. He speaks highly of Brad and we're really looking forward to welcoming him."

Ballymena United is delighted to now confirm that Sean Murray has joined the club to bolster our midfield options. 

The 32 year old, who can play in a variety of positions in the midfield, arrives at the Showgrounds having most recently spent time with Cork City in the League of Ireland Premier Division. Murray has experienced the Irish League before after a two year stint at Glentoran, as well as spending time in the EFL at the likes of Watford and Colchester United.

The Englishman, who represented the Republic of Ireland at U21 level, joins Igor Rutkowski and Dean Ebbe in adding to Oran Kearney's ranks in this transfer window and will be available for selection straight away.

Speaking to the club ahead of the announcement of his signing, Sean said: "What drew me most to Ballymena was the staff and the people around the club. The project is a positive one and I'm happy to be a part of it. He added: "Hopefully as I get up to scratch in the next couple of weeks and we get a few people back, we can go on a bit of a charge up the table. Ballymena is a sleeping giant with great facilties and a great fan base."

Manager Oran Kearney also spoke about bringing Murray to the club. He said: "Sean brings experience. You don't play the amount of games that he played for Watford in the Championship without undoubted star quality." Oran continued: "He had a few injury issues but he got those sorted a couple of years ago and has played seventy odd games for Cork since. He's absolutely flying and ready to go and we're looking forward to working with him."

Ballymena United Football Club is delighted to announce the appointment of Oran Kearney as the club's new first team manager.

Kearney brings a wealth of managerial experience to the club from his successful spells at Limavady United, Coleraine and St. Mirren.

The 47-year-old also returns to the Ballymena Showgrounds, having enjoyed a successful spell as a player under Kenny Shiels, making 121 appearances and scoring 34 goals between 2002 and 2005.

Joining Oran's backroom team will be former Cliftonville midfielder Barry Johnston, who takes up the role of assistant manager, having recently been in charge of Lisburn Distillery. In addition, Michael Doherty will also becoming on board as goalkeeping coach, having fulfilled the same role with Kearney at Coleraine.

Speaking of his appointment Oran Kearney said, "I'm very excited, it's been a whirlwind week. There's a real urgency to want to do well and a desire for success. It'll be a challenge, but I think this club has the infrastructure, the fan base and a lot of good things going for it.

“We will look to develop a relationship with the players and try and put my stamp on things as soon as possible. Everybody starts on a clean slate, it's up to players to impress in training to get into the team and move us forward. 

“I had an enjoyable time here as a player and in recent days a lot of those emotions have come back from my time playing here. I urge the fans to get behind me and the players and push us on for this second half of the season."

Oran’s first match in charge of Ballymena United will be in the away league trip to Portadown next Saturday (13 December), before his homecoming to the Showgrounds against Carrick Rangers the following week with tickets now available from www.ballymenaunitedfc.com/home-tickets