Ballymena United Confirm Signing of Crusaders Star
Ballymena United have confirmed the signing of Crusaders star Finley Thorndike in a player swap deal, with Donal Rocks moving to Seaview. The 24-year-old has joined the Sky Blues on a permanent transfer, with the deal seeing Rocks move in the opposite direction.
What Happened?
Thorndike scored four goals in 30 Premiership appearances for the Crues last season after arriving following a spell at Glentoran. He started in Crusaders' Premiership opener against Cliftonville earlier this month but wasn't involved when they defeated his new club 2-1 last weekend.
Why it Matters for Ballymena United
The signing of Thorndike follows Ben Kennedy's exit to Portadown and further boosts Ballymena's attacking ranks with Kearney also adding the likes of Chris McKee and Charlie Allen this summer. "Finley's a player who can make things happen and unlock a door,” Kearney told the club’s media channel.
What Comes Next?
Thorndike made 21 Premiership appearances for the Glens during his sole season at The Oval in 2024/25 and also scored in their Irish Cup win over rivals Linfield. He has joined the Sky Blues on a permanent transfer, with the deal seeing Rocks move in the opposite direction.
Ballymena United's Current Form
The Sky Blues are currently 8th in the Premiership, with 3 points from 3 games, and a recent form of LLW. They are 4 points behind leaders Coleraine FC in the title race and will face Dungannon Swifts away on December 19th.
Transfer Details
As part of the deal which brought Thorndike to The Showgrounds, Rocks has joined Crusaders on a two-year contract. The 26-year-old was limited to just eight Premiership appearances last season due to injury – he scored twice in Ballymena’s opening day win over Glenavon.
Reaction from Ballymena United
Confirming his arrival at Seaview, Crusaders posted: “Crusaders FC can confirm the permanent transfer of midfielder Finley Thorndike to Ballymena United with Donal Rocks moving to Seaview as part of the deal. “26-year-old Rocks is a versatile midfielder who will add further strength and depth to Declan Caddell’s squad.
Ballymena United's Squad
The Sky Blues have been boosted by the arrival of Thorndike, with Kearney also adding the likes of Chris McKee and Charlie Allen this summer. The club's squad is now looking strong ahead of a run of games you can check on our fixtures page.
Next Fixture
Ballymena United will face Dungannon Swifts away on December 19th, with the match being their next fixture in the Premiership. The Sky Blues are currently 8th in the league, with 3 points from 3 games, and a recent form of LLW. They are 4 points behind leaders Coleraine FC in the title race.
