Mark Picking and Marty Hunter challenge for the ball

An 83rd minute thunderbolt goal by Tony Shields from the edge of the area denied Ballymena their first league win of the season at Ballycastle Road.

After a dull first half, Neil Teggart fired home the rebound after a Gary Haveron free-kick was blocked by the knees of Davy O'Hare on 59 minutes.

Richard Gibson was sent-off for a second yellow card offence before Shields scored with his rasping shot.

Liam Mullan struck the woodwork and Stephen Carson hit the upright late on.

The Bannsiders had the better of the first-half chances, Gareth Harkin hitting the sidenetting. Kyle McVey going close with a header and Matt Crossan seeing a shot deflected.

Teggart was on target before Gibson was dismissed after fouls on Albert Watson, then Aidan Watson.