The 37-year-old South African faced a coaching duel with his former Connacht scrum-half Stephen McIvor, but it was the latter who held all the aces.

Ulster under-21 Andrew Trimble provided Nel with the perfect start, as his try double saw the visitors into a 17-13 half-time lead.

Owen Edwards converted both and tagged on a penalty for the Braidmen, with former Bath centre Andy O'Neill scoring his third of the season for 'Rock.

But perfect kicking from Conor Kilroy, who hit seven from eight attempts for an 18-point haul in all, allied to second score from 25-year-old O'Neill and a late pushover effort from back row Dave Dillon saw 'Rock chalk up their second home win of the campaign.

Nel had no answer to 'Rock's superior pack, and must rally his side - who sit fourth from bottom - ahead of next Saturday's visit of Dublin University to Eaton Park.

Scorers

Blackrock: Tries: Andy O’Neill 2, David Dillon; Cons: Conor Kilroy 3; Pens: Kilroy 4

Ballymena: Tries: Andrew Trimble 2; Cons: Edwards 2; Pen: Edwards