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The Mallards and Sky Blues remain unbeaten in the Premiership after a dour game devoid of clearcut chances.

The hosts made a bright start with Jason McCartney shooting straight at Ballymena keeper Dwayne Nelson.

Mallards defender Mark Stafford chipped over after the break while Ryan Campbell's header was saved by Nelson.

David Cushley provided the main threat for the visitors and the forward twice fired wide while Jamie Davidson screwed his shot off target after a good run.

There was a seven-minute delay in the first half after a clash of heads between Ballinamallard's Chris Curran and Aaron Stewart.

Curran was substituted following treatment and the game continued in disjointed fashion.

Ballinamallard move up to second and two points behind leaders Coleraine while the Braidmen are fourth, behind the Co Fermanagh newboys on goal difference.

"We played really well in the first half against a young, energetic Ballymena side," said Mallards manager Whitey Anderson.

"We have kept two clean sheets so far so the goalkeeper and defence are happy.

"There's still plenty of work to do but it has been a great start and we are enjoying it."