Ballymena United and Crusaders meet at Ballymena Showgrounds, Ballymena on Saturday, Oct 17 at 4:00 PM with both clubs firmly in the mix for the European places in the Premiership. Just 0 points separate them in the standings.

Ballymena United come into this fixture in mixed form (1W 0D 1L). Crusaders are in mixed form (1W 0D 1L), making this a relatively even contest on current form. Ballymena United head into this on the back of a defeat, while Crusaders arrive off a win — momentum clearly with the visitors.

Despite playing at home, Ballymena United face a side that has dominated this fixture historically. Crusaders have won 7 of 10 encounters, with 2 draws. Their last encounter ended in Ballymena United won 1–2. These two tend to produce goals — averaging 3.2 per game in recent meetings.

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