Paul Kirk and Tommy Wright confront each other

Simon Kelly scored the opener from close range on 46 but was then sent-off for handling a Chris Kingsberry cross, Darren Armour scoring the penalty.

Albert Watson headed Ballymena ahead but Craig McClean was then sent-off for a bad tackle on Peter McCann.

Paul Murphy was taken off with a leg injury, Kevin Kelbie went into goal and McConnell fired in a low shot for 2-2.

There were ugly scenes after the final whistle with reports of missiles being thrown.