Irish Cup Final 2022

BALLYMENA UNITED SQUAD

Jordan Williamson Goalkeeper

Sam Johnston Goalkeeper

Lee Chapman Defender

Ross Redman Defender

Joined from PSNI in 2018 and has now established himself as number one choice in goal. Suffered a bad knee injury just before Christmas which kept him out for a lengthy period but he has recently returned to the side again. Commanding in the air when coming for crosses and a fine shot stopper.

Sam signed from Dungannon Swifts at the start of the season and has been competing with Jordan Williamson for a starting place in the team. Appearances have been limited so far but he is a very good keeper who has done really well when in the team.

Started his career with Glentoran before joining Carrick Rangers. He signed for Ballymena United at the start of this season. Can play either in defence or as a midfielder. Likes to join in attacks and is a reliable defender. Has not played as many games as he would have liked but has looked assured when in the team.

Highly experienced left sided defender who has also played in the centre of defence when needed. Ross was with Portadown for 12 seasons where he won a League Cup winner’s medal. After joining Glentoran he had a loan spell with Dungannon before signing on with the Braidmen at the start of 2020-2021. Won a number of Player of the Year awards in his first full season with the club.

Sean Graham Defender

Caolan Loughran Defender

Malachy Smith Defender

Steven McCullough Defender

Sean was with Ballymena United before opting to go to the United States on a football scholarship. He has since returned and rejoined the Sky Blues where he has become an established member of the side at left wing back. Good on the ball and has good positional sense in defence. Recently signed a two-year contract extension.

Started his senior career with his hometown club before joining Carrick Rangers. He returned to Ballymena United last summer and has made 17 starts so far this season. A whole-hearted player who loves playing for Ballymena. Scored a wonderful winning penalty in the shootout against Larne in the quarter-final. Dangerous at corners and set pieces.

Mal joined United on loan fromGlentoran in January and already has made nine appearances at full back. Very assured on the ball and is a popular player with the fans. Good in possession going forward and likes to join the attack. Exciting young talent who demonstrates a lot of maturity. Came on as a sub for Glentoran in the final against Ballymena two years ago.

Has been at the club for five seasons now after joining from Carrick Rangers and is an established member of the squad. Missed a large part of last season due to a serious foot injury but he has come back to establish himself once again. Scored a sublime free-kick to win the semi-final against Newry City. Played in the final two seasons ago.

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