3rd XV disappointing defeat to Ballynahinch 4th XV in Foster Cup
At home in a difficult day for running rugby, Ballymoney played Ballynahinch 4th XV in the first round of the Foster Cup and on a very windy afternoon, writes Neil Campbell.
The Toon kicked off the game against the elements, knowing they would have to roll up their sleeves if they were to defeat the visitors. Most of the first half was played in the Toon twenty-two, but great defence meant Hinch where keep at bay. The big Hinch runners continually got knocked backwards by a very resistant Toon defence. With the half drawing to a close, Hinch got that little bit of luck. With Ballymoney defending a scrum on the five yard line, the ball shot out the side of the scrum and with Hinch the quickest to react they gathered the loose ball to pick up and score an unconverted try which in the end proved costly to the Toon lads. Half time 5-0 to Ballynahinch.
The second half was the complete reverse of the first with Ballymoney spending most of the half in the Hinch twenty-two but just could not turn their pressure into points. Russel Blair, Harry Orr and Matthew Johnston all being held up over the Ballynahinch line. Final score 0-5 to a very resolute and fortunate Ballynahinch 4ths who now progress in to the next round and we wish them luck.
Captain Johnny Waide commented “Another game of great defence by the this very youthful Toon side. We were missing Ronan who unfortunately broke his ankle last week and we wish him a speedy recovery. It just was not a day to suit our ever developing running game. We are disappointed with the result and felt we could have gotten more from the game today, but now, onto the plate where we hope we can go one better and win this year.In the meantime we have a UR Provincial North League game to contend with on Saturday.”