U14s defy Storm Eric to power past Lisburn

With a fierce wind whipping through Upritchard Park, it was going to be testing conditions for both teams. Bangor took to the pitch, with a number of players unavailable, and others stepping up to plug the vacancies.

The game began with Bangor taking the kick off, and a brisk wind behind their backs. This was immediately apparent, as the wind carried the ball beyond the Lisburn try line from the kick off.

Bangor were keen to make amends for their slow starts, which have plagued them a number of times during the season. This they did, scoring in the Lisburn corner, after some strong aggressive running on receipt of the 22 drop out.

Bangor used this as a platform to build, having shown their intentions early on. And that they did. As the game progressed the Bangor pack were able to assert their dominance in the game. They showed some positive aggression and strength at the breakdown, and there were some strong carries.

The backs were able to produce some strong running and line breaks.

That being said, the young men were not using the full width of the Bangor first pitch to its fullest, to give their speedy men out wide an opportunity to stretch their legs.

Following words of encouragement and As the game progressed, Bangor were finding their rhythm. They were using their speedy wingers more frequently, allowing them to exploit weaknesses in the Lisburn defence. This produced a number of tries.

Bangor were too strong for Lisburn, final score 45 - 12. Credit to Lisburn who persevered and scored in the dying moments of the game.

From a coaches perspective, with a number of unavailable players, it was great to see the versatility of the Bangor squad. It is also extremely positive to see the cohesion within this young group of men.

Overall this was a really positive game of rugby for Bangor, with some really encouraging passages of play. Final score 45 - 12 win to Bangor.

There was one stand out player during the game, who not only was playing out of position, but showed some real attacking flare and led by example. Well done Sam Lennon at full back, for attaining the Man of The Match accolade.

As always, thank you to all supporters. Next week is the final game of the league campaign against Lisburn away.

This Wednesday the U14s will play Regent House under the lights at Upritchard Park, in a training match. KO approximately 7:15pm. All support welcome.