Bryansburn Rangers began their 2026/27 league campaign with a hard-fought 2-2 draw against Colin Valley FC at Ballywooley in an entertaining opening-day encounter.

With an excellent home crowd behind them, Andy Wallace's side started brightly and showed plenty of attacking intent throughout the afternoon against a well-organised Colin Valley outfit.

The visitors took the lead before Bryansburn responded through Kyle Mackie, who marked his competitive debut with his first goal for the club to bring the Burn level.

Colin Valley edged back in front during the second half, but Bryansburn refused to let their heads drop. The pressure eventually told when Josh Patterson found the net to make it 2-2, ensuring the points were shared on the opening day of the season.

While there was a slight sense of frustration at not taking all three points, there were plenty of positives for the Burn to take into the weeks ahead, with several new signings impressing and the squad showing resilience to come from behind twice.

Andy Wallace's Thoughts

First Team Manager Andy Wallace said:

"There are plenty of positives to take from today. We showed great character to come back twice against a good Colin Valley side, and the lads never stopped believing. Of course, we'd have loved to start the season with three points, but it's a point on the board and something we can build on. There are still areas we'll improve, but the commitment and attitude of the players were first class."

Bryansburn now turn their attention to next weekend's fixture as they look to build on an encouraging opening-day performance.

Scorers:
⚽ Kyle Mackie
⚽ Josh Patterson

Thank you to everyone who came along to Ballywooley to support the team. Your backing was fantastic as always.

One Club. One Standard. Up the Burn! ❤️🖤