Tue 22 Sep 2026, 7:39
Glentoran Seconds secured a 2-1 victory over Ballymena United Reserves in the NIFL U20 Premiership Development League at Ashfield Boys’ High School.
Rory Magee scored both goals for the Glens, heading home in each half as James Dickson’s side came through a competitive encounter to claim all three points.
Glentoran made the breakthrough when Reece Bell delivered an inviting free-kick from a wide position. Magee attacked the ball powerfully and directed his header beyond the Ballymena goalkeeper.
The Glens went close to extending their advantage when Jake Drennan drove an effort narrowly wide from around 20 yards, with the goalkeeper appearing beaten.
Charlie Heron then came even closer with an excellent strike which crashed against the crossbar and dropped back into play.
Ballymena found an equaliser during a scrappy spell and were later reduced to 10 men, leaving Glentoran facing a disciplined defensive effort from the visitors.
The decisive goal arrived when Drennan produced a quality cross into the penalty area and Magee again rose to meet it, guiding another well-taken header into the net to complete his double and restore the Glens’ lead.
Glentoran managed the closing stages to secure a deserved 2-1 victory and return to winning ways in the Development League.
Glentoran Seconds 2-1 Ballymena United Reserves
Starting XI: Sawyer; Faloona, Drennan, Rogers-Duffy, Campbell, Heron, Sule, Grummitt, Weatherup, Bell (captain), Magee.
Subs: Anderson, Sitnicki, McCreery, Irvine, Rainey, Watt.
