Ballymoney RFC Notes: I XV 22 v Dromore RFC I XV 12 – Junior Cup Round 2 REPORT LIVE HERE

BRFC through to next round
by Andy Borthwick

Ballymoney maintain momentum with a solid win

Ballymoney were in action in the Ulser Junior Cup 2nd round this week, looking to go one better than the draw away to Dromore a few weeks back.

Dromore kicked off, playing towards the clubhouse, and soon let Ballymoney know that they were also intent on making up for dropped points last time out.

Early pressure resulted in the opening score for Dromore, a well executed catch and drive from the lineout, with a good conversion making it 0-7 after just 8 minutes.

Ballymoney were quick to react, retaining good possession for the rest of the half, and playing the game in Dromore’s half. This led to a succession of penalties for James Campbell, and the half closed out at 12-7.

In the second half, with Danny Platt coming on for Aidy Graham, the pressure continued. After 50 mins, Dromore had their winger sent for 10 minutes rest for a tip tackle.

Immediately, the extra man made a difference. From a short range lineout, the catch and drive was well executed for Garvin Bellingham to touch down again.

Just after Matthew Blair came on for Sam Kyle, a nasty clash of heads between Platt and Beverland resulted in Kyle’s return to the field, with Belligham moving into the back line.

In the initial confusion, Dromore capitalised with a pick and drive inside the 22 allowing them to cross the line again.

But Ballymoney soon came back to score the last try of the game on 62 mins, a set piece backs play ending with James Cleland putting Ryan Brace away to score untouched.

Final score was 22-12; Ballymoney will be happy to progress, but can certainly look to improve on the conversion rate from so much sustained pressure. Sam Kyle was the man of the match.

Next week is a return to league rugby, with a short trip to visit UUC. While UUC may have had a few bad results at the star of the season, they always come back strong once their squad gets established, and having gone close at Coleraine earlier in the season, they will be targeting this match.