Bangor face a difficult away fixture against Ballymena United next Saturday, a match that could prove vital for their Premiership survival hopes. The Seasiders travel to the Ballymena Showgrounds on October 31 in desperate need of points, having won just once in their opening twelve league games, a record of one win, three draws and eight losses.
That solitary victory came back in September, and their recent form makes for grim reading. Bangor are currently 12th in the table with only six points, a full 26 points behind leaders Linfield. Their last outing was a 1-2 home defeat to Dungannon Swifts on October 20, a result that extended their winless run to five matches. Ben Cushnie scored a consolation goal that day, but the team has conceded 24 times this season while scoring only ten. Their recent form over the last five games stands at zero wins, one draw and four losses.
Recent Performance
Bangor's recent results highlight their struggles. The loss to Dungannon Swifts was preceded by a goalless draw with the same opponent on October 17, and defeats to Linfield, Coleraine and Crusaders. This run of form, which reads as four losses and a draw from their last five, has left them anchored near the foot of the standings. In contrast, Ballymena United have been in strong form, securing wins against sides like Crusaders and Cliftonville to climb to fourth place. The Sky Blues have lost just one of their last five league matches, a run that includes a victory over league leaders Linfield.
Head-to-Head History
The last meeting between these sides suggests Bangor can be competitive. They played out a 2-2 draw at Clandeboye Park on September 5, showing they can match their opponents. Replicating that resilience on the road will be essential if they are to halt their slide. The draw in September was a rare positive result in a season where Bangor have taken points from only three fixtures.
Manager Lee Feeney will be looking for a response from his squad, which last started with players like Deane, McGuinness and Neale. The immediate focus, however, shifts to a home game this Friday night. Bangor host high-flying Larne, who sit fourth, at Clandeboye Park on Saturday 24 October. That match presents the next opportunity to try and turn their season around before the trip to Ballymena. Ballymena United, managed by David Jeffrey, will view the fixture as a chance to consolidate their top-four position and close the gap on the teams above them.
