3XV fightback to secure a draw in friendly against City of Derry 3XV

With the league now finished until after Christmas, the 3XV continued their travels to City of Derry this time, looking to continue their good form so far this season. Being a friendly, City of Derry opted to make use of their large squad and fielded 22 players.

Straight from the kick off COD settled into their game plan, using their big forwards round the corner punching big holes in Toon defence. COD opened the scoring to lead 14 nil before the Ballymoney struck back with their 1st try scored by Robbie McNeill, and converted by David Hodges. The 1st half finished with COD scoring and converting their 3rd try to lead 21-7 at half time.

The second half continued the same way, but Ballymoney started to win the battle at the breakdown, giving a better ball to the back line. Stuart Finney scored our 2nd try of the afternoon and converted by David Hodges. Score now 21-14 to COD. It wasn't long till COD extended their lead to 28-14.

With 10 minutes left on the clock, Ballymoney started to play the kind of rugby we have been used to this season. Good hands by both the forwards and backs, let Jonny Waide race clear to score below the posts. Try converted by David Hodges. Score now 28-21.

With the final play of the game, the Toon scored their 4th try by Jack Hart and converted by David Hodges. Final score 28 all. Not a vintage performance by Ballymoney, but great heart to stick in there and grind out the draw.