Mid Ulster Women 0-0 Ballymena Allstars Women: Goalless Draw Leaves Both Sides Frustrated

Magherafelt, Northern Ireland – May 23, 2026 – Mid Ulster Women and Ballymena Allstars Women played out a drab 0-0 draw in the Northern Ireland Women's Super League on Friday evening. The stalemate at the Castledawson Road Ground was a contest of few clear-cut chances, with both defences comfortably on top throughout.

Match Overview

Neither side managed to force a save of note in a first half that lacked quality in the final third. Mid Ulster had the better of possession but struggled to create openings against a well-organised Ballymena backline. The second half was only marginally better, with each team registering a single shot on target late on — both easily gathered by the goalkeepers.

Key Incidents

• 54' – Best chance: Mid Ulster striker breaks through but fires straight at the keeper from 12 yards.
• 78' – Ballymena free-kick: Dipping effort just over the crossbar; the closest either side comes to scoring.
• 85' – Late substitution: Mid Ulster throws on an extra forward but cannot find the breakthrough.

Tactical Story

Both managers set up cautiously, prioritising defensive shape. Mid Ulster's 4-5-1 formation lacked creativity, with the lone forward isolated for long periods. Ballymena were content to sit deep and hit on the counter, but their attacks often broke down due to poor final passes. The game was a tactical chess match that never produced a thriller.

Standout Players

• Chloe Martin (Mid Ulster Women) – The centre-back made several important interceptions and distributed the ball cleanly from the back.
• Lisa Moore (Ballymena Allstars Women) – The goalkeeper had little to do but commanded her area well when crosses came in.

Impact on the Standings

The point leaves Mid Ulster in seventh place with 11 points from 12 matches, while Ballymena remain ninth, six points clear of the relegation zone. Both teams would have hoped for more, but the clean sheet will be a positive for Ballymena as they look to build momentum.