Portstewart 1–5 Ballymena United FC: Pre-Season Dominance from the Sky Blues

Ballymena United FC began their pre-season preparations in emphatic style with a comprehensive 5–1 victory over Portstewart in an International Club Friendly at the Showgrounds on Saturday evening. The Northern Irish Premiership side showcased their attacking depth, racing into a commanding lead before the home side could find any rhythm.

Match Overview

The friendly, played under floodlights on a warm July night, saw Ballymena United dominate from the first whistle. Portstewart, a side from the NIFL Premier Intermediate League, struggled to contain the visitors' pace and movement. The Sky Blues struck twice inside the opening 15 minutes, taking a stranglehold that they never relinquished.

Key Moments

• 6th minute – Ballymena captain Leroy Millar opened the scoring with a powerful header from a corner.
• 14th minute – Winger Steven McCullough doubled the lead with a curling effort from the edge of the box.
• 33rd minute – Portstewart pulled one back against the run of play through a well-taken strike from forward Ryan O'Kane.
• 41st minute – Ballymena restored their two-goal advantage just before half-time, with centre-back Kofi Balmer nodding in from close range.
• 57th minute – Substitute Kenneth Kane made it 4–1 with a clinical finish after a fast counter-attack.
• 78th minute – Youngster Caolan McAleer rounded off the scoring with a composed strike to complete the 5–1 rout.

Tactical Story

Ballymena United manager Jim Ervin set his team up in an aggressive 4-3-3, pressing high and forcing turnovers in the Portstewart half. The midfield trio of Mark Carson, Josh Kelly, and Sean Graham controlled the tempo, allowing the full-backs to push forward and supply crosses into the box. Portstewart, in contrast, played a compact 4-4-2 and tried to hit on the break, but their defensive line was repeatedly caught out by Ballymena's movement off the ball.

Standout Performers

Leroy Millar was a commanding presence at both ends, scoring the opener and organizing the defense. Steven McCullough caused constant problems on the left wing, while substitute Caolan McAleer made a strong case for a starting role with his late goal. For Portstewart, Ryan O'Kane impressed with his work rate and the lone goal, but he lacked support from midfield.

What It Means

For Ballymena United, this result builds early momentum ahead of the new NIFL Premiership season. Manager Ervin will be pleased with the sharpness displayed, particularly the clinical finishing. Portstewart, meanwhile, can take heart from their goal but will need to tighten defensively if they hope to challenge in their league campaign.