CHAMPIONSHIP 1: Comrades share spoils with nine-man Welders

Comrades boss David Dorrian (left) and Welders boss Gary Smyth. Photos: Presseye

The first half served up five goals and the hosts were first on the scoresheet with just four minutes on the clock when Chris Trussell netted from six yards.

The Welders levelled matters through Michael McLellan but Trussell restored Ballyclare’s advantage, bagging his second of the game on 15 minutes.

Four minutes later the Welders were back on terms for a second time thanks to Josh Cahoon. And shortly before the interval Cahoon added his second of the afternoon to put Gary Smyth’s men in front for the first time.

Ballyclare hit back early in the second session when Sammy McIlveen netted from the spot after JB Dobbin’s shot hand been handled on the line by Ryan Deans. The former Carrick midfielder saw red for his hand ball, meaning the visitors were left with 10 men.

The Welders were reduced to nine players with 12 minutes to go when Craig Harris picked up a second caution.

Ballyclare Comrades: Nicholl - Docherty, McCart, Wharry, McQuitty - O’Hanlon, McIlveen, Dobbin, King (Brown) - Simpson (E. Hill) - Trussell. Subs: Getty, Woods, McClurg.