Ballynahinch United leave it late

Two late goals are crucial for Ballynahinch United. Read the report and see some of the action.

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Ballynahinch's Rhys Patterson chases the ball during their Steel and Sons cup game against Suffolk.

Steel and Sons Cup – Round One

Ballynahinch United 2 Suffolk FC 1

By Gilbert Cromie

BALLYNAHINCH United got the 2024/2025 season under way with victory over visitors Suffolk in the first round of the Steel and Sons Cup.

The visitors started well in the first 15 minutes, but Ballynahinch soon found their rhythm, and enjoyed a fair bit of possession, with Ronnie Johnston, Gavin Crawford and Greg Hall controlling midfield, while Lee Maxwell and Rhys Patterson threatened from the wings.

Unfortunately, Rhys was forced off through injury, with Cameron McKissock replacing him.

Defensively United were looking solid, with Tommy Rodgers, Matthew Hall, Chris Coleman and Stuart McMullan giving Stefan Graham good cover.

Despite United’s dominance, their failure to take their chances cost them dearly as it was Suffolk who broke the deadlock six minutes before the end of the half.

A scrappier second half looked to be turning into a frustrating afternoon for United with the threat of being knocked out of the cup looming.

It wasn’t until the 90th minute that United pulled one back.

Cheevers slotted home a penalty after a foul in the area.

Ballynahinch weren’t finished there though! In the 93rd minute, a spectacular clearance-cum-shot from 65 yards by Thomas Rodgers bounced over the goalkeeper’s head into the net to clinch United the tie.

Congratulations to Matthew Hall, Ronnie Johnston, Lee Maxwell, Rhys Patterson and Alan Dickson, who came off the bench, on making their debuts for the club.

Ballynahinch United will now travel to 1A side Ards Rangers in the second round on Saturday 17 August but they hosted Suffolk once again in the league last night (Tuesday 6 August).

The club is also pleased to announce a partnership with Family Art Studio to sponsor the Player of the Month award.

 

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