Ballymena United boss Oran Kearney believes Finley Thorndike “can make things happen” for the Sky Blues after joining from Crusaders in a player swap deal which sees Donal Rocks moving in the opposite direction.

Thorndike scored four goals in 30 Premiership appearances for the Crues last season after arriving following a spell at Glentoran.

The 24-year-old, who previously spent time on the books of West Brom and Aston Villa as a youngster, started in Crusaders’ Premiership opener against Cliftonville earlier this month but wasn’t involved when they defeated his new club 2-1 last weekend.

Thorndike’s arrival follows Ben Kennedy’s exit to Portadown and further boosts Ballymena’s attacking ranks with Kearney also adding the likes of Chris McKee and Charlie Allen this summer.

placeholder image — Finley Thorndike has joined Ballymena United from Crusaders. (Photo by Ballymena United FC)

"Finley's a player who can make things happen and unlock a door,” Kearney told the club’s media channel. “When we lost Ben Kennedy it was important we looked for a similar type of player who can have a real impact at the top end of the pitch.

"He comes across a great lad and we're looking forward to working with him."

Thorndike made 21 Premiership appearances for the Glens during his sole season at The Oval in 2024/25 and also scored in their Irish Cup win over rivals Linfield.

"I was really excited to get this deal done after speaking to the board and manager,” he said on his move to Ballymena. “It has all happened so quickly, but I'm looking forward to meeting the lads.

"I know one or two of them and they seem a great group. I'm just really excited to show the fans and the team what I'm about."

As part of the deal which brought Thorndike to The Showgrounds, Rocks has joined Crusaders on a two-year contract.

The 26-year-old was limited to just eight Premiership appearances last season due to injury – he scored twice in Ballymena’s opening day win over Glenavon.

Rocks was named vice-captain alongside Patrick McEleney ahead of the 2025/26 campaign by former manager Jim Ervin.

Confirming his arrival at Seaview, Crusaders posted: “Crusaders FC can confirm the permanent transfer of midfielder Finley Thorndike to Ballymena United with Donal Rocks moving to Seaview as part of the deal.

“26-year-old Rocks is a versatile midfielder who will add further strength and depth to Declan Caddell’s squad.

“Rocks has agreed a two-year contract with Crusaders and will be available for selection as Crusaders host Portadown at Seaview this weekend.

“Everyone at Crusaders FC would like to thank Finley Thorndike, who made 32 appearances scoring 4 goals for the club, for his efforts during his time at Seaview and wish him every success for the future.”

On Rocks’ departure, Ballymena said: “Having returned from injury this summer, Donal has advised the club that he wanted a fresh challenge and regular football at this stage of his career.

“Signed from Cliftonville in July 2023, Rocks gave the club stellar service over the past three seasons; making 70 appearances and scoring four goals for the Sky Blues.

“Everyone at the club thanks Donal for his commitment to the club and wishes him the best of luck with this next chapter of his football journey at Seaview.”