City of Derry Rugby U19’s returned to Judges Rd on Saturday last as Ulster U19 Bowl Winners after defeating Larne U19’s in a closely fought game at the Mid Ulster Sports Arena, Cookstown. This was the first time that City of Derry Under 19’s have been successful in a final at this age group.
City of Derry started the game well but conceded a converted try with Larne’s first venture into the Derry half for a 7pts to nil lead. Derry responded with a well worked individual unconverted try by City of Derry Captain Jamie Devine and Larne’s lead was 7pts to 5pts. Derry were now playing some excellent rugby and after more sustained pressure full back Jack Hargan hit a superb line to score a fine unconverted try and Derry lead for the first time by 10pts to 7pts. Larne got some possession eventually and in only their second foray into Derry territory they scored an unconverted try to leave the half time score at 12pts to 10pts in Larne’s favour.
City of Derry started the second half with some purpose after Coaches Nathan Deeney and Philip Duffy had made some tactical changes to Derry’s play at the half time break. The result was all out attack from the North West boys and two try’s followed in quick succession the first came from the excellent Jamie Devine and the second try came from Michael Hannah which was converted and Derry lead by 22pts to 12pts and were cruising.
City of Derry seemed to loose concentration as the game entered the final quarter. Some sloppy defence by the Derry allowed Larne score a try and a penalty to leave Derry with a very slender lead at 22 pts to 20pts. Derry then wrapped up the tie with an opportunist try from prop Ross Harkin which left the final score 27pts to 20pts and victory to Derry. There were outstanding performances on the day from Jamie Devine and Jack Hargan and they shared the Man of the Match accolade. It was a very happy group of players, coaches and supporters who returned to Judges Rd on Saturday evening to celebrate a fine win in style.
