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Goalden Ducks

Ballinamallard United 2-2 Cliftonville

Late goals from former Ballinamallard United strikers Ryan Curran and Michael McCrudden saw Cliftonville hit back from 2-0 down to draw with the Bluefin Sport Championship side in this afternoon’s Ferney Park friendly.

Trailing when Josh McIlwaine headed home a rebounded effort towards the end of the first-half, the Reds – who made five changes at the break – looked to have drawn level with a long-range drive that cracked the underside of the bar before bouncing downwards, but found themselves further behind courtesy of a smart touch and finish inside the area from Chris Kelly.

A change of shape amid torrential rain saw Cliftonville enjoy greater possession in threatening areas and it was no surprise when they reduced the arrears in the closing minutes; Curran slamming past former Reds keeper John Connolly when the ball fell his way following a corner kick.

There was still time for the visitors to force one or two further chances as the clock ticked down, with their efforts eventually rewarded with a penalty which McCrudden stepped up to emphatically dispatch and complete the scoring in an entertaining and high-tempo affair.