This weekend's Senior Cup quarter-final between Ballynahinch and Instonians is shaping up to be an intriguing matchup. The reigning champions, Ballynahinch, are set to face off against the formidable Instonians on December 23rd, creating a clash between a top-tier team and a determined force from a lower division.
Ballynahinch, currently positioned in 5th place in Division 1A, have a track record of dominance, winning the last three Ulster Premierships. They were victorious in the last Senior Cup final against Queen’s University, securing a 24-15 win. Eager to maintain their winning streak, Ballynahinch aims to defend their Senior Cup title.
Instonians, though a few leagues below Ballynahinch, present a formidable challenge with a 27 match bonus-point winning streak. The team has remained unbeaten in competitive play since February this year, sitting comfortably at the top of Division 2B in the All Ireland League. Instonians' remarkable journey includes promotion from Ulster Championship 1 in 2021/22 and an impressive AIL 2C victory with 18 consecutive bonus-point wins.
This game is the first time in ten years that the teams have come up against each other, not having played head to head since the 2013/14 season. The match holds added significance as the winners are set to face a stern test in the semi-final against City of Armagh. Ballynahinch faced the City of Armagh last week in a Division 1A clash, in which they were victors, 29-18.
As fans eagerly anticipate this clash between the top-tier heavyweight and the relentless underdog, one thing is certain – the Senior Cup quarter-final between Ballynahinch and Instonians is poised to deliver a captivating display of skill, strategy, and sheer determination. Fans will be treated to a thrilling encounter, where each team's unique journey and strengths converge on the pitch in pursuit of Senior Cup glory.
The winner of this match will determine the final fixtures of the Senior Cup Semi-Finals on the 9th March which are as follows:
- Banbridge v Queen’s University
- City of Armagh v Winners of Quarter-Final