CIYMS lost 25-12 to Ballymoney in the 1st game of the season in Qualifying 1. However, this was a game which CI could have, and should have won. Naivete and nerves saw Ballymoney rack up two early scores, one from a push over try and the other from a cross field kick which bounced fortunately for the home team. After these early setbacks CI settled well and dominated the possession in the first half. CI came close to scoring on three or four occasions only to be frustrated when Ballymoney scored a breakaway try and two penalties to go 22-0 ahead. CI’s perserverence eventually paid off with Lorenzo Burgess powering over from the back of the scrum in the corner for an unconverted try just before half time.
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The second half started more positively with Mark McConkey bursting through the Ballymoney line and just failing to delivering the try scoring pass. Joel Semple was also unlucky to be pushed into touch at the corner flag. However, the pressure paid off and Wes Henry got CI’s second try which was skilfully converted by Jonny Rowan. As both teams tired the match became a war of attrition. Armo, Conks, Chippy and Scotty led the charge, trucking the ball up all day long. Michael Wilson also had a great day on his debut with some darting runs and bullet passes. Ballymoney managed one penalty in the second half and effectively killed the game of with their relentless crash balls.
Full time Ballymoney 25, CIYMS 12
Man of the Match: Mark Scott
