With the 1sts having a rest week, and the 3rds match cancelled due to lack of available CIYMS players, all eyes were focussed on the 2nds who hosted Ballymoney 2nds at Upritchard Park. Having recorded a good win against Queens University the previous weekend, Bangor were hoping to keep their momentum going with another home win.

In a closely matched opening half, it was a case of nip-and-tuck as both sides traded a try each and neither being able to impose their authority. However, Bangor completely dominated the scrums and repeatedly pushed their opposite numbers back despite being at an obvious size and weight disadvantage. On the other hand, Ballymoney had the upper hand in the lineouts, as they showed better anticipation and timing which allowed them to steal possession on several occasions.

With the game finely balanced in the second half, a fine break down the left hand touchline forced Ballymoney to concede a penalty on their 5 metre line. Sensibly opting to the scrum penalty, Bangor’s pack produced another steady shove which was finished off by Sam Murray at Number 8 who picked up and drove over for a well-worked try.

At last Bangor were in front, but not by much. Ballymoney still looked dangerous but Bangor’s defence proved equally effective, denying the visitors at every attack. However, it was Bangor who had the final word when Davy Charles collected the ball just outside the Ballymoney twenty two and cut through the flagging defence to dive over for the decisive try which he also converted to bring the score to 19-10. Despite Ballymoney’s best efforts, they were unable to add to their tally, and as the referee blew for full time, Bangor could celebrate another good win.

With the 1sts resuming their All Ireland League next weekend with a must-win fixture at Omagh, the 2nds also make the journey to Mellon Park hoping to provide additional winning support. It would be great if a good number of supporters could accompany the players in this double-headed Ulster derby.