Cup provides cheer for Showgrounds youth teams

Ballymena United U-17s, who played Carniny Youth at the Showgrounds on Friday night. INBT 51-830H

The u13s travelled to Solitude on Friday evening for a tough tie away to Cliftonville in the NIBFA cup and secured their passage with a classic late winner in extra time.

The under 15’s also progressed in the cup with a comprehensive victory over Downpatrick side Celtic Bhoys. The 17’s recorded another derby win against Carniny on Friday night. Not to outdone the under 12’s made it through to the last 16 of the NIBFA Cup.

The Youth Academy grand Christmas draw takes place this Saturday during half time of the seniors league game with Linfield, get your last minute tickets from any coach or committee member, first prize is £1000!

UNDER-12

BUYA 4, Roe Valley 0: Playing with patience and control in the early stages, Ballymena made the breakthrough on 8 minutes from Mark Lowry who shot low into the net from 15 yards.

Just before the break, and after a period of sustained pressure Ben Dallas provided a pinpoint cross for Joshua Balmer to show bravery and rise above the keeper to double the lead. Ballymena stepped up the tempo in the second half, moving the ball about, looking for openings and retaining possession.

Dallas made the game safe with 15 minutes to go with a rising left foot shot off the underside of the crossbar and the same player doubled his tally with another neat finish following a Millar lay off. Ballymena United Under 12’s are sponsored by Tullyglass Hotel.

UNDER-13

Cliftonville 1, BUYA 3: Ross McCausland sent United on their way with a great solo run before finishing at the near post.

CLiftonville equalised but with penalties looming, a superb Taylor Adger pass sent McCausland away and the Antrim flier made no mistake making sure United were in the draw for the last 16. Ballymena United under 13’s are sponsored by Keylite Windows.

UNDER-15

BUYA 17, Celtic Bhoys 0: United hit the goal trail on the 3g on Saturday morning against the Downpatrick juniors and this was a real confidence boost for the group who had lost out narrowly 2-1 to Linfield during the week. The goals were well spread throughout the squad and the 15’s also now progress to the last 16 of the blue ribbon trophy.

UNDER-17

Carniny Youth 1, Ballymena United 3: AFter falling behind to a Carniny free kick, United got back on level terms when an excellent ball from Rhys O’Mullan released Zack Herbinson who slotted past the advancing keeper. Ballymena went ahead when Michael McCabe finished from close range. Towards the end of the game United extended their lead with a good finish from Luke Stockman.