Transfer Details
Portadown have completed the signing of 29-year-old Ben Kennedy from fellow Irish League side Ballymena United. The forward-playing midfielder joined David Jeffrey’s side for an undisclosed fee, with the transfer agreed earlier this week.
Career Overview
Kennedy began his senior career in England with Stevenage, where he made 167 appearances and scored 31 goals. He returned to Northern Ireland to sign for Crusaders, netting 39 goals in 109 matches for the Hatchetmen. Most recently, he was at Ballymena United, scoring 17 times from 42 appearances. The 29-year-old is known for operating just behind the striker, providing creativity, guile and a goal-scoring threat.
Club Statements
Portadown Head of Recruitment and Football Operations David Douglas praised Kennedy as a “unique player” who will add experience, creativity, personality and leadership to the squad. Douglas said, “Ben Kennedy is a confident player who brings personality to any team. Obviously I know Ben from my time at Ballymena and know how positive an influence he is around a changing room and the leadership he shows on the pitch.” He added that the club was delighted to have Kennedy on board alongside other new recruits.
Ballymena United released a statement on social media confirming the move. The club said, “The player informed the club this week he wished to seek a move away from the Showgrounds, which was reluctantly accepted.” They added, “Everyone at Ballymena United would like to sincerely thank Ben for his important contribution to the club during his time and wish him every success in the future.”
Registration and Upcoming Fixtures
It was not disclosed whether Kennedy’s registration was cleared in time for a potential debut in Saturday’s visit of Dungannon Swifts. The club’s new signing will need to be registered before the match to be eligible.
Additional Transfer News
While Portadown’s focus was on Kennedy, Bangor have also completed a signing. The Seasiders secured 22-year-old midfielder Mackenzie Strachan on a two-year deal after his contract with Scottish League One side Cove Rangers expired. Strachan, a former Scotland U19 international and product of Rangers’ academy, has previously played for Stranraer and Annan Athletic.
The transfer window continues to bring fresh faces to Irish League clubs, with Portadown and Bangor both adding experienced players to strengthen their squads for the coming season.
