Ballymena United and Carrick Rangers meet at Ballymena Showgrounds, Ballymena on Tuesday, Sep 15 at 8:45 PM with both clubs firmly in the mix for the European places in the Premiership. Just 3 points separate them in the standings.

Ballymena United come into this fixture out of form (1W 2L recently). Carrick Rangers, meanwhile, arrive in mixed form (2W 0D 0L) — actually the better-performing side in recent weeks. Ballymena United head into this on the back of a defeat, while Carrick Rangers arrive off a win — momentum clearly with the visitors.

Head-to-head records offer little separation — Ballymena United and Carrick Rangers have split their 10 meetings almost evenly (4W–3D–3W). Their last encounter ended in Carrick Rangers won 2–3. These two tend to produce goals — averaging 3.0 per game in recent meetings.

Verdict: This looks an evenly matched contest. Home advantage gives Ballymena United a slight edge, but Carrick Rangers are capable of causing problems. A draw would be a fair result.