Jordan Williamson shoot-out success as Ballymacash Rangers win first Steel & Sons Cup final at expense of Holywood

Under former Glenavon boss Gary Hamilton, Irish League third-tier Ballymacash added the Christmas Day trophy to the club roll of honour for the first time ever with a 4-2 spot-kick triumph after the sides hit full-time level at 1-1.

Ross Hunter had put Ballymacash in front early on before Joshua Burns’ first-half equaliser during a thrilling initial half-hour run of talking points.

The penalty shoot-out finished in a 4-2 scoreline in the favour of Ballymacash – with goalkeeper Jordan Williamson strong between the posts to get Rangers over the line at the expense of Amateur League-based Holywood thanks to save success.

The 30-year-old Williamson can boast past top-flight Irish League experience with Ballymena United, Crusaders and Portadown.

His efforts to help Ballymacash lift silverware attracted plenty of support across social media, with a selection of comments including praise for Williamson as “safe hands” and a "legend”.

Another message offered congratulations to the club: “They have come a long way and deserve this win today. Congratulations to all involved in running Ballymacash Rangers...onwards and upwards in 2026”.

BALLYMACASH RANGERS: J.Williamson, E.Hughes, S.Clarke, K.Devine, A.Neale, R.Hunter, J.Doyle, Z.Woolsey, A.McGrory, R.Neill, H.O’Neill.

Subs: S.Cochrane, R.Robinson, B.Neely, D.Sinnerton, G.Hamilton.

HOLYWOOD: R.James, M.Keys, J.Burns, J.Ritchie, M.Cox, M.Munn, J.McKinley, J.Craig, C.James, S.Anderson, G.Keenan.

Subs: B.Andrews, J.McCadden, M.Andrews, C.Craig, D.Hamilton.

​The festive Irish League cup final programme continues with three additional prizes up for grabs:

BOB RADCLIFFE CUP: Dollingstown v Rathfriland Rangers (Boxing Day, Crystal Park, 11 o’clock).

CRAIG MEMORIAL CUP: Desertmartin v Heights (Boxing Day, Fortwilliam Park, 11.30).

BORDER CUP: Derriaghy CC v East Belfast (Saturday, Seaview, 2.30).