ANY chance of a Christmas Day showpiece final disappeared with defeat to Dromara Village in the Steel and Sons Cup today.

Ironically, the last time in which the Sky Blues won the prestigious Intermediate competition was in 1995, defeating Dromara Village in the final that day.

The second-string Reserve side fielded first-teamers such as Simon Kelly, Gavin Melaugh, Kevin Kelbie and Lee Patrick, but struggled to cope with the physical nature of Dromara's play.

There were few clear cut chances throughout the game, but the winner was something special.

One of the visiting midfielders picked the ball up on the half-way line and strode forward before unleashing an unstoppable shot from all over 35 yards, which flew in off the underside of the crossbar.

A goal which will struggle to be beaten at the Showgrounds this year, was the only highlight of a bad-tempered affair. As Dromara Village take their place in the fourth round draw.

Ballymena United Reserves: Sean O'Neill, Gavin Melaugh (sub Aaron Holland), Simon Kelly, Andrew Long, Aaron Stewart, Gary Baird (sub Lee Colligan), Daley Carnduff, Lee Patrick, David Cushley, Kevin Kelbie (sub Jimmy Crawford), Paul McNeill.