Match sponsorship dedicated to: Belfast Fire Studio
The much-anticipated start of the season kicked off under the glorious sunshine at The Millbridge. Ballynahinch United welcomed familiar foe, Tullycarnet, on the luscious green grass.
In the first half, United were very solid and organised, especially impressive when 6 of the starting 11 were new signings, with ever-present Chris Coleman leading the back line alongside debutants David Osborne and Simon Johnston.
In midfield, Kyle Spindlow, another debutant, and Gavin Crawford kept the midfield tight while providing opportunities for the home team’s forwards, new signing Glenn Moffett looked dangerous throughout. But the deadlock couldn’t be broken.
With little else to talk about in the first half, the teams went in goalless. A slow start to the new season. Ballynahinch were perhaps the more pleased out of the two teams at the break.
At half-time, Ballynahinch were forced into a substitution when the so-solid Harry Wilson couldn’t continue due to injury. Teenager Jude Kelly joined the line up in midfield for his debut.
A rejig of the line-up forced some players out of position which ultimately led to Ballynahinch’s downfall.
Two goals in four minutes for Tullycarnet at the start of the second half put Ballynahinch on the back foot and fighting an uphill battle for the rest of the match.
They battled back well but never put a name on scoresheet despite another United debutant, Louis Boyd-Wisoner’s 25-yard effort crashing off the bar.
Tullycarnet found their shooting boots and scored three in the final 15 minutes of the game with some United players tiring after holidays. A scoreline that perhaps did the United performance an injustice.
Congratulations to debutants David Osborne, Simon Johnston, Kyle Spindlow, Glenn Moffett, Bradley Hamilton, Louis Boyd-Wisoner, Kyle Steenson and Jude Kelly.
The club would also like to congratulate new signing Tom Nelson on his recent marriage to former Ballynahinch Youth player and current Crusaders Ladies player, Ali McMaster on Friday 25 July. And to John McMenamin, on his marriage to Abigail, on Saturday 2 August. Best wishes to both couples from all at Ballynahinch United.
Line up: Stefan Graham [C], Harry Wilson (Jude Kelly), Simon Johnston, David Osborne, Chris Coleman, Gavin Crawford, Kyle Spindlow, Glenn Moffett, Louis Boyd (Kyle Steenson), Bradley Hamilton (Ben Maxwell), Lee Maxwell.
Man of the Match: Gavin Crawford
Ballynahinch United will return to action on Thursday 7 August at The Millbridge against Castlewellan Town. Kick off at 7pm.