Ballymena return to winning ways

Carlow 16 Ballymena 26

Ballymena had too much in reserve for Co Carlow at Oak Park, getting their Championship charge back on track following last week’s capitulation against Blackrock.

That was a first home defeat for Ballymena since March 2002, and with Paddy Wallace starring at out-half with three penalties and two conversions, Ballymena deservedly won out 26-16 over Carlow.

They led 10-6 at the interval with Dirkie Strydom notching his second try of the campaign, converted by Wallace, and a penalty from the number 10.

Michael Swetmann hit over two penalties in reply for Carlow.

The second half saw Andy Maxwell and Maurice Logue swap tries, with Carlow man Logue marking his fifth game of the season with a fourth try.

Further penalties from Paddy Wallace and a well-taken drop goal from Ian Humphreys sees Ballymena remain in third, three points behind leaders Con.