The Ulster derby in Division 1B at a sunny Deramore lived up to its pre-match billing as a close-fought affair saw Ballymena prevail over Belfast Harlequins.

The Ulster derby in Division 1B at a sunny Deramore lived up to its pre-match billing as a close-fought affair saw Ballymena prevail over Belfast Harlequins.

Harlequins started off the stronger team and got on the board quickly with a third minute penalty from centre Lane. Another breakdown infringement gave Lane the opportunity to increase the lead to 6 points in as many minutes. Harlequins continued to control the opening quarter of the game and once more were able to put another 3 points on the board after another penalty was awarded to Quins, again Lane made no mistake in keeping the score board ticking over giving his side a 9-0 lead.

Ballymena responded well from the kick off immediately putting pressure on the receiver which resulted in a penalty against the home side for sealing off. Out Half Tim Small made no mistake with his first effort of the day taking the score to 9-3. Soon after, Ballymena were awarded another penalty. An ambitious penalty goal attempt from Small grazed the post from about 45m out. Ballymena started to take a strangle hold of the game after a cutting break from Tim Small almost put Mike McComish away as Ballymena started to make good use of their increased possession and territory. A key moment in the match just before half time saw Ballymena turn down a kickable penalty, opting for the corner. Despite getting turned over a few phases later, great work from David Shanahan put Harlequins under pressure clearing their lines and a great charge down from Clive Ross was pounced on by Stephen Mulholland. Tim Small converted the try to push Ballymena into a 10-9 lead just on the stroke of Half time……….. for the full report :>> http://www.ballymenarugbyclub.com/2014/09/20/harlequins-14-ballymena-22/