Ballymena United face Linfield in opening clash after Crusaders defeat
Ballymena United open their season against Linfield after a 3-2 loss at Crusaders on 25 April 2026. The visitors include defender Aaron McCarey, who spent time with Ballymena United in 2025. League standing (final 2025 table -- new season not yet under way): 10th in Premiership, 34 pts, 9W-7D-17L from 33 games, recent form LLDWD.
Why McCarey’s return to Ballymena United matters
Aaron McCarey left Ballymena United last summer after a loan spell. Now at Linfield, he faces his former teammates in the season opener. The defender told Belfast Telegraph it’s ironic to return so soon. Ballymena United conceded 50 goals last season, with a goal difference of -11.
McCarey’s return adds spice to the fixture. Ballymena United finished 10 points behind Larne in the title race. Their recent form reads 0W-1D-4L in the last five games, with losses to Coleraine, Glenavon, Dungannon and Crusaders.
What this clash means for Ballymena United’s season
A win against Linfield would lift spirits after a difficult run. The 3-2 defeat at Crusaders showed defensive frailties. Ballymena United scored 39 goals last season but shipped too many at the back.
Manager Johnny McKinstry will hope for a better start. The club’s recent form has them winless in five, with the last four losses all coming in the Premiership. Their next step is to tighten up at the back before the new campaign kicks off.
Ballymena United’s path forward after tough opening
Ballymena United need to turn things around quickly. The season opener against Linfield is a chance to start fresh. With just nine wins from 33 games last term, improvement is urgent.
The club’s recent run of four straight losses shows how tough the Premiership is. A strong defensive display against Linfield could set the tone for the season ahead.
