Ballymena United have confirmed that their prestige challenge match against Manchester United U23s at the end of the month will now feature the club's first team.
The two sides will meet at the Showgrounds on Monday, July 29 as part of this year's STATSports SuperCupNI tournament.
Originally, Ballymena were due to field an underage team for the clash , but the Sky Blues have now confirmed they will use the fixture as part of their pre-season campaign ahead of the new NIFL Premiership campaign.
David Jeffrey’s side are currently preparing for their Europa League home tie against Malmo FF and will continue their preparations for the beginning of the domestic season against the young Red Devils.
Victor Leonard, chairman of STATSports SuperCupNI, commented: “We are delighted that David Jeffrey is using this game against Manchester United as part of his pre-season build up with his full strength Ballymena United squad.
"This news certainly will add much to this year’s STATSports SupercupNI Tournament and gives the fans in Ballymena and Northern Ireland an opportunity to see Manchester United playing against an excellent Irish League team.”
Tickets, priced at £10 for adults and £5 for under 16’s will be on sale at Stirling Trophies, Queen Street, Ballymena, SS Moore, Chichester Street, Belfast as well as at Ballymena Showgrounds on Thursday, July 18, UEFA Europa League fixture v Malmo.
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