Craigavon City (W) 1–2 Ballymoney United (W): Late Drama Seals Points for United

Ballymoney United Women snatched an important away victory at Craigavon City on 27 June 2026, winning 2–1 in a hard-fought Northern Ireland Women’s Super League contest. The result moves Ballymoney up the table while leaving Craigavon City still searching for consistency in their bid to climb away from the relegation zone.

Match Overview

The match at Craigavon’s home ground began evenly, with both sides cautious in the opening exchanges. Craigavon City, buoyed by home support, pressed high early but failed to capitalise on a few half-chances. Ballymoney gradually grew into the game, and a scrappy first half ended goalless after both goalkeepers made routine saves.

Key Moments

• 55th minute – Goal Craigavon City: A breakthrough for the hosts when a corner was knocked down and poked in from close range, sending the home fans into celebration.
• 68th minute – Goal Ballymoney: United equalised through a smart finish after a defensive lapse from Craigavon. A through ball caught the backline flat, and the Ballymoney forward finished low into the corner.
• 88th minute – Goal Ballymoney: With the match heading towards a draw, Ballymoney struck the winner. A free kick from the left flank was met with a glancing header that nestled inside the far post, silencing the home crowd.

Tactical Story

Craigavon City set up in a compact 4-4-2, aiming to frustrate Ballymoney and hit on the counter. That plan worked for the first hour, but Ballymoney's switch to a more direct approach after conceding paid dividends. Their midfield began to win second balls, and the introduction of a pacey substitute wide player tilted the balance. Craigavon retreated too deep in the final ten minutes, allowing Ballymoney to dominate the aerial battle that decided the match.

Standout Performers

Ballymoney’s centre-back partnership was crucial in keeping the scoreline close, but the hero was substitute winger Rebecca Stewart, whose energy and delivery created the equaliser before she scored the winner. For Craigavon, midfielder Sarah Thompson worked tirelessly, winning tackles and distributing play, but lacked support in attack during the closing stages.

Season Context

The win gives Ballymoney United a valuable three points and a boost in confidence as they prepare for a run of winnable fixtures. Craigavon City, now just two points above the relegation places, will rue the defensive lapses that cost them a hard-earned point. With the league season entering its decisive stretch, every result carries massive weight at both ends of the table.