Ballymoney United (W) 1-4 Ballyclare Comrades Women
Northern Ireland Women's Super League – 14 May 2026

A dominant second-half display powered Ballyclare Comrades Women to a comprehensive 4-1 victory over Ballymoney United in the Women’s Super League. The result cements Ballyclare’s position in the upper half of the table, while Ballymoney remain anchored near the bottom after a punishing evening at Riada Stadium.

Match Report

Ballymoney started with determination, hoping to disrupt the visitors’ rhythm. Their early pressing yielded a surprise opener in the 12th minute when a threaded pass split the Ballyclare defence and the home striker slotted calmly past the goalkeeper. However, Ballyclare quickly regrouped, equalising before half-time through a powerful header from a corner kick.

Second Half: Comrades Take Control

The visitors emerged from the break with a different level of intensity. Within six minutes of the restart, Ballyclare had turned the game on its head. A swift move down the left resulted in a cross that was turned in from close range, making it 2-1. The goals kept coming: a stunning long-range strike in the 67th minute extended the lead, and a late penalty in the 83rd minute sealed the rout.

Key Moments

• 12’ – Ballymoney shock the favourites with a well-taken opener.
• 38’ – Ballyclare equalise through a commanding header from a set-piece.
• 51’ – Ballyclare take the lead early in the second half.
• 67’ – A thunderous shot from outside the box makes it 3-1.
• 83’ – Penalty converted, wrapping up a 4-1 victory.

Tactical Observations

Ballymoney’s high press worked only for the opening quarter, after which Ballyclare’s superior technical ability and passing range overwhelmed the home side. The Comrades’ midfield trio dominated possession, while their full-backs pushed high to create overloads. Ballymoney’s defence, forced deeper and deeper, could not cope with the relentless pressure.

Standout Performances

Ballyclare’s number 10 was the architect of the comeback, providing two assists and scoring the third goal. The visiting goalkeeper had little to do but made a vital save at 1-1 to keep momentum with her side. For Ballymoney, the striker who scored the opener worked tirelessly but lacked service in the second half.

League Implications

The win lifts Ballyclare Comrades Women into fifth place in the Northern Ireland Women’s Super League, just three points off the European qualification spots. Ballymoney United, meanwhile, remain second-from-bottom, now six points adrift of safety with only a handful of matches left. Their survival hopes are fading fast.