By Q Radio Sport
Ballymena United defeated Carrick Rangers 2-0 at Seaview to win the NI League Cup for the first time in their history.
There were celebrations after the historic victory.
The Sky Blues players celebrated with the big contingent of United fans.
Midfielder Allan Jenkins scored the opening goal just before half-time and was named man of the match.
Just Champion 🏆 pic.twitter.com/Ke1GzAHq8e
— Ballymena United FC (@BallymenaUnited) February 18, 2017
Ballymena substitute, former Carrick player Conor McCloskey clinched the cup with a stunning strike in stoppage time.
It was David Jeffrey's first trophy as Sky Blues boss after 31 with Linfield.
But he was keen to praise the contribution of his right-hand man.
Thank u to every1 for the msgs. Too many to reply to every1. #bufc#leaguecupwinners#shewore pic.twitter.com/KC37MZtwvo
— Jim Ervin (@Ervin_21) February 18, 2017
Carrick manager Aaron Callaghan says he was disappointed with the officials and feels his team was denied a clear-cut penalty...
A big thank you to our fans who backed the team all the way tonight. Keep that noise going the rest of the season! #AmberArmy 🔶⚫️⚽️ pic.twitter.com/ju8L2LVrKK
— Carrick Rangers (@Carrickrangers) February 18, 2017
Among the big crowd of Sky Blues supporters was former world boxing champion, Eamonn Loughran.
His son Caolan impressed at centre-back for Ballymena and was praised by his proud father after the match.
Ballymena teacher and former Sky Blues player Mark Surgenor captained Carrick in the final.
He had family members in the crowd, supporting the opposition.