A YOUTHFUL Ballymena United Reserves side managed to gain a point at home to Carrick Rangers Reserves.

Ballymena started this match with five players from the Thirds in the starting eleven because of injurys and they stepped up to the mark with a blood and guts performance that they should be immensly proud of themselves.

In the the 12th minute Paddy Deboys beat three men and started a combination of passes between Deboys, Moore and Carson before being finished by the impressive Englishman John Rimmer giving the Carrick goalkeeper no chance.

Carrick replied with a fine header to equalise on the 20th minute.

In the 36th minute Chris Rodgers played a superb ball over the top for Colin Moore (pictured) to run onto and he hit a shot which the keeper saved and Moore did well to score the rebound.

United came out in the second half determined to keep their lead and were unlucky in the 65th minute when Davidson's shot just sailed past the post.

Carrick were always looking dangerous on the break and they scored on the 78th minute after a quick break down the left.

Ballymena United Reserves: Aaron Kerr, John Mckee, Denver Gage, Chris Rodgers, David Chesney (sub Jamie Davidson 25), Jordan Waring, Gavin Kernohan, Rory Carson, John Rimmer, Patrick Deboys, Colin Moore. Subs (not used): Jad Dorrian, Justin Sterritt.

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