Ballymena United began the Irish Premiership season with a commanding 3-0 win over Linfield at Windsor Park, signalling an impressive start to Oran Kearney’s first full campaign in charge. The result matters because Ballymena have substantially reshaped their squad and defeated one of the league’s expected title contenders, while exposing a troubling opening performance from David Healy’s side.

Former Linfield player Chris McKee scored twice on his Ballymena league debut, with both goals assisted by ex-Blues teammates, before Success Edogun completed the scoring. Ballymena’s first win at Windsor Park in 22 years included their first three goals there since 1973; Kearney made 11 summer signings and saw 17 players leave, with five former Linfield players starting the match. Midfielder Josh Archer said the team had “set the bar” but must now reproduce that standard, with demanding fixtures against Crusaders, Glentoran, Larne and Coleraine ahead.