A new looked Newry squad travelled to Lurgan for what was to be an excellent game of free open rugby. Newry appeared sluggish at the start, maybe due to the travel, as Lurgan immediately countered at rucks setting up for a backs move which cut the defence in half resulting in a converted try for Lurgan, this was later followed by a penalty leaving the score 10-0 with 15minutes on the clock.
A regrouped Newry stood together at the re-start, each player committing to give one hundred percent for the remainder of the game. A great break in play by Cathal Mc Nally, brought Lurgan into their 22, quick hands from the backs set up full back Fearghal Lewis to cross the line for Newrys first try.
A second try was soon to follow moments before the half time whistle with Patrick Wentworth finding a gap in the defence, teams tied at half time.
CLICK HERE 44 pictures from the game – enjoy!
The second half continued in the same tempo with Newry putting Lurgan under pressure, it took a little bit of Magic from man of the match, Robbie Walsh to get onto the score sheet, collecting a defensive kick on the 40m line weaving his way through the Lurgan defense, passing at least 10 players to score a try under the post. The final try for Newry was all about team work, Newrys pack secured their scrum under pressure, setting up John o Kane to provide Patrick Wentworth with his second try. Lurgan battled back with their supporters cheering they were able to get a try back, but never looked like taking the lead, the final minutes showed Newrys composure with great defence from Chris Best and Cristoir Horan, Newry finished the game champions. This was the first victory for the 2nd squad this season and was met with great rapture, Newry hope to capitlise against Grosvenor on Saturday.
Team: C. McNally, M. Fegan, C. Best, P. McShane, G. Toal, A. O’Donnell, C. Horan, P. Haughey, R. Walsh, J. O’Kane P. Wentworth, M. Cunningham, S. Larkin, D. Armstrong, F. Lewis.
