GAVIN Kernohan's goal was enough to send Ballymena United Thirds into the quarter-finals of the Harry Cavan Youth Cup.

Ballymena started well and dominated large parts of the first half.

Neil Lowry caused Distillery problems up front and brought a good save from the keeper.

Caolan Gillan saw his shot deflected over the bar and with 25 minutes gone Gavin Kernohan headed home after good work from Michael O'Mullan and John McKee down the right.

Distillery tried to get back on level terms but Ballymena limited them to long efforts.

The second half saw Distillery push hard to level the score.

Ballymena's defence was streached atthimes but Chris Bradley dealt with anything that came his way.

As the half went on Ballymena got in behind Distillery and Caolin Gillan saw his effort hit the post.

Ballyeman held on for a hard fought win and will face Cliftonville Strollers in the quarter-finals in January.

Ballymena United Thirds: Chris Bradley, Corey Price, David Reid, Daniel Agnew, Dermot McWilliams, Jamie Fleming, Caolan Gillan (sub Jordan Waring), Michael O'Mullan, Neil Lowry, John McKee, Gavin Kernohan (sub Connell Delargy). Subs (not used): Connal Dooey, Eamonn Kearns, Craig McDowell.

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