The opening half was extremely physical with the home side’s pack seeking to dominate at close quarters and showing a reluctance to move the ball very far. The Bangor side showed great character and resilience and did not bow to the pressure that was being applied by the home team. This was rewarded by a great solo effort from the Bangor out half Jonah Topping who identified space behind the Ballyclare backs to put in a clever kick which he gathered himself to score under the posts. He went on to add the conversion. Ballyclare replied with an unconverted try shortly before half time.

The second half saw Bangor’s more ambitious running game rewarded with tries from Cain Croft and Jake Burns both of whom went in from distance leaving multiple defenders flailing in their wake. Again Topping was able to convert both tries from challenging angles. By this stage Bangor had now managed to establish ascendancy up front and were controlling the breakdown; their dominance was confirmed when a “pick and go “ close to the line resulted in the fourth Bangor try. Topping maintained his perfect record from the tee by adding the extras. By this stage Bangor had been reduced to fourteen men with the loss of Frankie Shivers who once again put in an exceptional performance leading from the front. It was therefore no surprise in the closing minutes that Ballyclare made their numerical advantage count by ending the scoring with a converted try leaving the final score 28-12 in Bangor’s favour.

This was a hugely impressive performance played out in challenging circumstances; the Bangor team showed great spirit and endeavour and were worthy victors. All of the boys played their part but special mention is required for the defensive efforts of Cain Croft, Jack Pitts and Todd McEvoy.

(Report courtesy of Mark Tinman)