This weekend the focus of club rugby is on the SONI Ulster Premiership and the Kukri Ulster Championship. Here is our preview of the games...
In Div 1B of the Ulster Bank All Ireland League Ballynahinch and Banbridge remain in the top four behind leaders Shannon. Ballymena are in 8th place after UL Bohemians had five points deducted for playing an ineligible player otherwise the Eaton Park side would have found themselves in 9th place.
In Div 2A Malone remain leaders after an emphatic 49 – 7 win at the Dub against Queens Uni. Again as last season Highfield and Nenagh Ormond are their nearest challengers. City of Armagh are in 4th place with Queens Uni in 6th with two points separating them.
In Div 2B Rainey OB have closed the gap on Limerick leaders Old Crescent to three points after winning against City of Derry and a rearranged game 15 – 7 at home to Sunday’s Well at the weekend. Dungannon are in 6th place with Belfast Harlequins in 9th and City of Derry in 10th place. The postponed game involving Dungannon and Belfast Harlequins will be played at Stevenson Park this weekend.
In Div 2C Bangor are 5th with Omagh in 6th place with both teams level on 28 points. The goal for both teams is to finish in the top four. You will see from the league table that only 10 points separate Bangor and Omagh from 10th place Tullamore with the County Offaly side playing a postponed game this weekend at home to league leaders Sligo.
This weekend we have the penultimate group matches left in the SONI Ulster Premiership League. In Div 1 City of Armagh are looking to retain the Stevenson Shield they won for the first time last season. They have a four point advantage over second place Banbridge who they meet at the Palace Grounds on Saturday. A bonus point win for City of Armagh will make them favourites to retain the league title with third place Malone travelling to Ballymena. Struggling City of Derry entertain Ballynahinch.
In Div 2 of the SONI Ulster Rugby Premiership Queens University are in pole position to secure promotion to Div 1 next season with a win over Rainey OB. The students have a two point advantage over second place Belfast Harlequins. The Dungannon v Belfast Harlequins has been postponed with Bangor entertaining Omagh at Upritchard Park as the County Tyrone side look to reverse their 19 – 5 defeat two weeks ago at the same venue.
For the 12 Ulster All Ireland league clubs they will be looking to build momentum as they return to action in Round 12 of the UBL on the 27th January.
In the Kukri Ulster Rugby Championship Instonians and Ballyclare remained locked on 47 points at the top of Div 1. Both these teams have now opened up a 18 point gap on third place CIYMS. At the beginning of December you would have said that teams like Carrick, Dromore and Coleraine would be up challenging for a top four finish. It is amazing what can happened in five/six weeks. Carrick find themselves on a losing run of 4 league matches with both Dromore and Coleraine losing their last 3 games. How quickly the fortunes of a team can change. Portadown, Enniskillen and Cooke all picked up important wins to put pressure on Coleraine who have slipped down into 9th place ahead of struggling Clogher Valley who are now eight points adrift in 10th place.
This weekend we have both Instonians and Ballyclare playing at Shaws bridge. Instonians host Enniskillen with Ballyclare travelling to play Cooke. Third place CIYMS entertain a Portadown team who have won their last two games. Both Carrick and Dromore will be looking to end their losing run when they meet at the Tom Simms Memorial Grounds. At the Cran in Fivemiletown the bottom two teams Clogher Valley and Coleraine meet. Who would have ever predicted that these two teams would occupy the bottom two places.
In Div 2 of the Kukri Ulster Rugby Championship Grosvenor have opened up an eight point lead on second place Randalstown with both teams meeting at Gibson Park on Saturday. The first game was a thriller at Nelisbrook on the 16th December when Grosvenor prevailed to win 36 – 25. Expect another high scoring encounter between two talented teams who like to play open running rugby. The surprise result last weekend was the defeat of Ballymoney 11 – 0 at Academy. The Roughfort side have continued their good form under Head coach Gareth Lynn winning 7/8 league games as they make a late push for second place and the playoffs. Academy entertain neighbours Larne with third place Ballymoney looking to keep up their pursuit of Randalstown when they travel to the John Hunter Grounds to play a resurgent Limavady side who narrowly went down 15 – 12 at Ards last Saturday. wi Limavady had won their previous three games in the league/Conference League and the Towns Cup prior to their loss at Ards..
There is a crucial bottom of the table clash between UUC and Lisburn on the North Coast with both sides needing a win.
In Div 3 of the Kukri Ulster Rugby Championship Lurgan and Donaghadee remain the pacesetters. Both teams recorded big wins at the weekend with Lurgan defeating Donegal Town 77 – 0 scoring 11 tries whilst Donaghadee recorded a 74 – 0 win over Cavan scoring 12 tries. With three points separating the two teams Donaghadee have opened up a 13 point advantage over third place Strabane. In Round 15 leaders Lurgan travel to play Newry with Donaghadee travelling to the North West to play Strabane this weekend. Will it come down to the final game in Round 22 on the 14th April when Donaghadee meet Lurgan at Donaldson Park to decide the league winner. A lot can happen between now and that final game.
ULSTER BANK ALL IRELAND LEAGUE DIV 2B
Dungannon (6) v Belfast Harlequins (9)
Head coach Andy Hughes has felt the frustration as he prepares a team to play Belfast Harlequins on Saturday. Several players have been involved in doing exams and along with the weather it has been difficult to build momentum after a good run before Xmas. Postponement of games involving City of Derry and Belfast Harlequins has not helped. Injury rules out second row JJ Kane along with props Sean O’Hagan and Rodney Bennett. One positive piece of news is that back row forward Jonah Mau’u has returned from New Zealand. Out half Chris Swash was involved with the Ulster A squad last week against the Cornish Pirates. The coach is awaiting news on his availability this week.
Belfast Harlequins came up just short losing 22 – 18 to Dublin side Wanderers in their re arranged game at Deramore last Saturday.
Quins team: 1. Mark McGrath, 2. Steven Weir, 3. Rory Harrison, 4. Danny Annett (Captain), 5. Callum Leckey, 6. Jaz Andress, 7. Daryl Marshall, 8Toby Mannus, 10. Mattie McKenzie, 11. Matthew Robinson, 12. Christian Bennison, 13. Mark Gribben, 14. Richie McKee, 15. Mark Glover, 16. Saul Herdman, 17. Matthew Bourne, 18. Zach Jordan, 19. David Devine, 20. Aodhan Gallagher.
Points scorers: Penalty try, Toby Mannus 1 x try, Mattie McKenzie 2 x pens.
SONI ULSTER PREMIERSHIP DIV1
Ballymena (4) v Malone (3)
City of Armagh (1) v Banbridge (2)
City of Derry (6) v Ballynahinch (5)
Ballymena v Malone
Ballymena coaches Andy Graham, Alex McCloy and Bryan Young have selected the following squad to play on Saturday. They include front row options of Houston Bonnar, Nacho Crespo, Chris Cundell, Tim Savoury and Ryan Matheison. Second row from Mark Foster, David Whann and Connor Smyth. Back row from Aidrian Hamilton, Stephen Mulholland, Joe Thompson and Dominic Gallagher. Backs are from David O’Hara, Glenn Baillie, Stephen Shaw, Dean Reynolds, Jonny Rossborough, James Beattie, John Loughlin and James Boville. Injury rules our Rodger McBurney, Matthew Norris, James Taggart and Andrew Ferguson.
Malone Head coach Paddy Armstrong will rotate his squad this weekend with the seconds having no match after their 13 – 13 draw with Ballynahinch seconds at Gibson Park last Friday night. Tom Dullage will come into the second row with seconds Captain Ricky Greenwood starting at loose head. Centre Michael Cartmill makes a welcome return after playing against Ballynahinch seconds.
City of Armagh v Banbridge
It was a case of the Armagh players being given a night off on Tuesday from training after their efforts against Cork Constitution on Saturday. Assistant coach Chris Parker described the game as very physical with a number of players picking up injuries that will require late fitness decisions to be made on Thursday night. John Faloon who missed the game last week will face a late fitness test. Centre Johnny Pollock is unavailable with Chris Cousins picking up an ankle injury against Cork Con that will rule him out for several weeks. Evan Crummie gets an opportunity to start in the centre with second row Peter Starrett back in contention for a starting place after recovering from injury. There is limited opportunity to rest players with the 1st and 2nd xv teams involved in busy playing schedules. Another example is the meeting of Armagh seconds and Ballynahinch seconds at Ballymacarn Park this weekend that will see a re run of the Millar McCall Wylie Junior Cup Final.
One player who has impressed me in the Armagh pack this season is their former Ulster under 19 second row Josh McKinley. Chris Parker has described his progress as considerable as he has taken on the responsibility of the team’s lineout calls. He was unlucky not to pick up the MOM award in the final of the First Trust Senior Cup Final against Ballymena such was his dominance of the lineout. Surprised Ulster have not looked at his performances this season. He put in a competitive performance against Ulster second row Matthew Dalton in the Senior Cup semi Final between City of Armagh and Malone.
Banbridge Head coach Daniel Soper will have no Ulster players available this week with the Cromie family away on skiing holidays. The match on Saturday presents opportunities for several players to get a start on the 1st xv. The coach is looking for his team to put in a good performance before heading back into the UBL on Saturday week. He agrees a win at Armagh would put his team in a great position to win the league. It would take a very good performance as Armagh are in great form.
City of Derry v Ballynahinch
Influential City of Derry scrum half Tyler Rogers-Holden has returned to New Zealand. Out half Neil Burns not available for remainder of season. Sam Duffy, Paddy Blennerhurst, Simon Logue and Stephen Corr unavailable for selection this weekend. Several other players are injured and unavailable. Difficult situation at the Club. It will be Thursday night before a team is finalised.
SONI ULSTER PREMIERSHIP DIV 2
Bangor (6) v Omagh (5)
Dungannon (3) v Belfast Harlequins (2). Match postponed due to rearranged UBL game.
Queens University (1) v Rainey OB (4). Played Thursday 18th January 2018. Kick off 7.30PM
Bangor v Omagh
1st xv Manager Ricky Armstrong has been pleased that Bangor have been able to add former Bangor Grammar school hooker Max Montgomery to their 1st xv squad under dual status arrangements with neighbours Donaghadee who hold his registration. Another plus for the Bangor coaches has been the progress Ross McCloskey has been making in the unfamiliar position of out half as he forms an exciting partnership with Lewis Brett.
Bangor have enjoyed the week off after defeating Omagh 19 – 5 in the UBL two weeks ago at Upritchard Park. The focus for the coaches and players is the resumption of the UBL on the 27th January with a game away to Bective followed by another away trip to Bruff. Like Omagh Bangor will need to fight for every point in this highly competitive league.
Selection has yet to be finalised with all three Bangor teams playing this weekend.
Omagh Head coach Phil Marshall is resting a number of forwards and backs for this fixture at Bangor on Saturday. He is giving a number of players who need game time their opportunity. The rest of the team will be made up of second xv players who have been knocking on the door for a chance to impress the coaches. Squad will be finalised on Thursday night. The goal before the resumption of the All Ireland league is to get as many players ready for the next 2 UBL games.
Queens Uni v Rainey OB
From Ian McAvoy 1st xv Manager Queens Uni. Game against Rainey has been brought forward to Thursday night. Pitch inspection on Thursday will decide if game goes ahead.
Queens squad along lines of:
1.Anton Lupari, 2. David Swann, 3. Andrew Clingan, 4. Ali Burke, 5. David Whitten, 6. Nigel Simpson (Captain), 7. Jonny Lees, 8. Gary Dillon, 9. John Creighton, 10. Richie McMaster, 11. Conor McKee, 12. Rory Bell, 13. Jonny Milliken, 14. Curtis Dundas, 15. Jack Milligan, 16. Jonny Black, 17. Marc Campbell, 18. Curtis Stewart, 19. Conor Shiels, 20. Gerard Treanor.
The focus for Rainey OB Head coach John Andrew’s is the next two UBL games against Skerries and Wanderers on the 27th Jan and the 3rd February. His team have closed the gap on leaders Old Crescent to three points. There is real concern over the availability of South African hooker Brad Roberts after he picked up a serious knee injury against Sunday’s Well last Saturday with the club awaiting results of a MRI Scan. Out half Andrew Magrath picked up a dead leg in the same match. Good news for the coach is that he will welcome back Jason Bloomfield and Josh McIIroy for the UBL matches. Rainey as a club continue to make progress with their seconds topping Provincial league 2. Under age development continues at pace through the clubs successful under 20 and Youth teams as the club build for the future.
ULSTER RUGBY PREMIERSHIP 2nd xv LEAGUE
Ballynahinch seconds v City of Armagh seconds
Banbridge seconds v Ballymena seconds
KUKRI ULSTER RUGBY CHAMPIONSHIP DIV 1
CIYMS (3) v Portadown (8)
Carrickfergus (5) v Dromore (4)
Clogher Valley (10) v Coleraine (9)
Cooke (6) v Ballyclare (2)
Instonians (1) v Enniskillen (7)
CIYMS v Portadown
As Head coach Gareth Fry put it CI are no different to other clubs in dealing with the flu bug within their squad over the last couple of weeks that has meant a lot of changes to team selection. The coach is hoping to have a few players returning this week whilst he awaits injury updates on others. Again he will not finalise his team until Thursday night. Gareth missed the teams match at Ballyclare due to Schools commitments with reports suggesting the CI team played really well against a very strong physical team in pretty terrible conditions. He felt his team were unlucky not to get a losing bonus point especially with 6 players unavailable in the forwards. What has brought about the change in the CI team over the last six weeks is the improved defence. CI as a team will always create opportunities but unfortunately at the beginning of the season the team were letting in too many scores. The players are starting to trust each other with the team spirit growing as a result.
His players are aware that Portadown are a form team and much changed from when they played them last September. His team are expecting another hard game. As results in this league show there are no “gimmies” in this league.
Portadown Head coach Richard Hedley was pleased with his team’s late win over Dromore on Saturday. Unfortunately it came at a price with injuries to three key backs, Captain Craig Woods, Dave Whitten and Jack Orr. There is one change to the forwards with Matthew Wilson returning in the front row. Team selection to be finalised on Thursday night.
Veteran number 8 Stuart Lamb has returned to the team along with the experienced Diarmuid O’Kane and Ollie Montells to guide this young squad to wins over Enniskillen and Dromore. Lamb scored the bonus point fourth try at Enniskillen and the crucial decisive try in the teams 18 – 17 win at home to Dromore last Saturday.
When these two teams met at Chambers Park on the 16.9.17 CI won 31 – 19.
CI Team that played Clogher Valley in 32 – 16 win at the Cran on the 6th January 2018.
1.Ali Coulson, 2. Scott McNarry, 3. Timothy Atcheson, 4. Cory Tipping, 5. Mark McConkey, 6. Scott Dowle, 7. Jason Gilliland, 8. Stuart Ferguson, 9. Cameron Stewart, 10. Paddy Beverland. 11. Matthew Kilgore, 12. Callum Irvine (captain), 13. Matty Butler, 14. Craig Devlin, 15. Nathan Burns, 16. A Walmsley, 17. Ruari Meharg.
Points scorers: Craig Devlin 2 x tries, Jason Gilliland and Nathan Burns 1 x try each, Matthew Kilgore 3 x cons, 2 x pens.
CI team lost 13 – 5 to Ballyclare on 13th January 2018.
1.Gavin Woods, 2. Scott McNarry, 3. Timothy Atcheson, 4. Cory Tipping, 5. J Ryan, 6. Scott Dowle, 7. Jason Gilliland, 8. Mark McConkey, 9. Cameron Stewart, 10. Paddy Beverland, 11. Matthew Kilgore, 12. Callum Irvine (Captain), 13. Matty Butler, 14. Craig Devlin. 15. Nathan Burns, 16. D Kealey, 17. Eunan Nelson.
Points scorer: Nathan Burns 1 x try.
Players unavailable include Peter Raine, David Cobaine, Ali Coulson, Paddy Aiken, Aaron Kilpatrick, Rob Haldane, Elliott Boyd.
Carrickfergus v Dromore
Crucial game for both teams with Carrick having lost their last 4 league games and Dromore their last 3 games. When you look at these losses both teams have experienced it has been by small margins. Both teams have to develop the resilience that Instonians and Ballyclare have to close out tight games.
Jeremy Ogle, Director of Rugby at Dromore, feels their last three defeats have been very disappointing in the league. It has been a case of game management letting the team down. In the defeats against Ballyclare and Portadown the team conceded late tries to lose both games when they had opportunities to keep the opposition out of their twenty two.
In an attempt to improve on areas that the team need to improve on the coaching team of Johnny Cullen and Jamie Kirk have added video analysis to their match days. The goal is that regular viewing can help the coaches and players to concentrate on the areas that the team and players need to improve on.
Dromore points scorers against Portadown: Blair McDonald and Brian McClearn 1 x try each. Lee Steenson 1 x con and 2 x pens.
When these two teams met at Barban Hill on the 23.9.17 Carrick won a close contest 13 – 10.
Clogher Valley v Coleraine.
After defeating Carrickfergus and Dromore in the league Clogher Valley went on to lose their next two games against CIYMS and a heavy 48 – 7 defeat away to Cooke last Saturday. The alarming aspect in the defeat at Cooke was the ease with which the Cooke team were able to score seven tries with poor defence making it easy for the Cooke backs. The Clogher forwards held their own despite missing number 8 Ryan Wilson who was absent with flu. The unavailability of two experienced backs in Dillon Crawford and Andy Breen did not help. Injuries to Matthew Keyes and Cullen added to the woes of the Clogher team with experienced back rower BJ Wilson leaving the pitch with a hamstring injury. Key back Toby McAlpine is unavailable this week.
This week they face a Coleraine team like themselves who need the points after suffering three consecutive league defeats. The omens are not good for Clogher. Coleraine have already defeated Clogher twice this season. In the league Coleraine won 26 – 12 at Rugby Avenue on the 30 .9.17.
When the two teams met at the Cran in the Millar McCall Wylie Junior Cup on the 30.9.17 Coleraine ran out convincing winners 74 – 17.
Coleraine have suffered defeats against Instonians, CIYMS and Dromore to slip into 9th place after being promoted as Div 2 champions last season. Head coach Richard Boyd has much work to do after the success of last season.
Cooke v Ballyclare
As Cooke Head coach Colin Atkinson stated, the league is proving very close again this year with any team capable of beating any other team on the day. He was delighted with the five points against Clogher Valley. The players played low errors and were very disciplined throughout the game. This approach made a huge difference after recent disappointing performances.
Saturday will be a big day at the club indeed with both Cooke 1st and 2nd xv sides at home to Ballyclare teams. Cooke women will follow the men on the main pitch kicking off against Tullamore at 5PM in the Womens All Ireland League.
Selection for Ballyclare will be finalised on Thursday night. If there are no fresh injury concerns the panel will remain similar to the Clogher game.
Cooke v Clogher Valley 1. Jonathan McClune, 2. Curtis Montgomery, 3. Liam Bennett, 4. Jonathan Walsh, 5. Alex Quigley, 6. Matthew Elliott. 7. Calum Robinson, 8. Jason Lyons, 9. Ryan Flavelle, 10. Andrew Hanna, 11. Jonathan Backus, 12. Kyle Mitchell, 13. Philip Cartmill, 14. Alan Gourley, 15. Alex Gourley (Captain), 16. Russell Hunter, 17. Andrew Pollock.
Points scorers: Jonathan Backus 3 x tries, Alex Gourley, Jason Lyons, Kyle Mitchell, Andrew Pollock 1 x try each. Alan Gourley 3 x cons, 1 x pen. Alex Gourley 2 x cons.
Ballyclare Head coach Mike McKeever was delighted with the great character and resilience shown by his team to win with the last play away to Dromore and then battle out a home win against a strong CIYMS side last week. It has been a real squad effort by the players to get the wins. The pack have been superb in the past three games at scrum time with Ricky Lutton having real standout games along with the rest of the front rowers Rory Henderson, Dean Jones, and Matthew Coulter. Captain Grant Bartley has been leading the side brilliantly and is thriving under the role of guiding his team alongside past captain Robert Boyd. Dave Clarke had a strong game as always last week and is supported by by the back row rotation of Gary Weatherup, Ryan Tweed, Aaron Playfair and Paul Robinson.
The Ballyclare backs have been very consistent this season in attack and defence and their best attribute is their versatility to play in a range of positions as a starting place butt also to change during a game but with the poor conditions underfoot it has been challenging to play attractive rugby so it has really been about knuckling down and get the hard earned wins.
This Saturday will look to field close to the same side as the previous three matches and continue to rotate the bench to ensure the squad stays sharp. Seven of the squad are under 21 with only three players over the age of 28 years. The coach is looking forward to playing at Shaws bridge and will prepare the Ballyclare players for a challenging game.
Instonians v Enniskillen
Director of Rugby William Leacock has been pleased with the progress of the three adult teams at Instonians this season with all three teams competitive in their leagues. Kevin McKee has been doing a great work with the clubs 3rd xv and is developing a competitive squad with a good number of young players alongside a few experienced older players.
The 1st and 2nd xv teams have been going well of late in their leagues with numbers consistent at training. Unfortunately injuries are starting to build up. Rory McCurry has been ruled out with an ankle injury. The coach is hoping number 8 Ben Alexander will return from injury this week and join a similar squad that won at Coleraine.
When these two teams met at Mullaghmeen on the 23.9.17 Instonians ran out convincing winners 51 – 5.
Enniskillen Head coach Willy Gibson was delighted with the performance of his team in their 18 – 7 win over Carrickfergus last week. It made up for the disappointing 24 – 0 loss at home to Portadown the previous week. The players are just taking it one game at a time. Their focus is to cut out the errors and enjoy playing their games. He is aware that Instonians will be a good test for his young team. He is anticipating a few changes to his backline with selection to be finalised on Thursday night.
KUKRI ULSTER RUGBY CHAMPIONSHIP DIV 2
Academy (4) v Larne (6)
Grosvenor (1) v Randalstown (2)
Limavady (7) v Ballymoney (3)
PSNI (9) v Ards (5)
UUC (10) v Lisburn (8)
Academy v Larne
Impressive run Academy are on at present having won 7/8 league games played to challenge for 2nd place in the league and the playoffs. Their only defeat being at Ards on the 4.11.17 when they inexplicably lost 57 – 12 after leading 12 – 0.
Head coach Gareth Lynn is pleased with how the team are performing. The 11 – 0 win over Ballymoney at Roughfort was built on the back of a strong defensive performance in the 1st half. But as he puts its only a good result if the team back it up with a win over Larne.
Academy team v Ballymoney:
1.Peter Jackson, 2. Adam Martin, 3. Troy Wilson, 4. Kyle Gregg, 5. Brian Cahill, 6. Keith Dobbin, 7. Stewart Martin, 8. Richard Henderson, 9. Dave Kenny, 10. Chris Cooper. 11. Jamie Wilson, 12. Mark Wylie, 13. Lewis Davidson, 14. David McCullough, 15. Simon Beattie, 16. Jonny Allen, 17. Ross Bryans.
Points scorers: Dave Kenny 1 x try. Chris Cooper 2 x pens.
Only change expected for Larne game is Lee Moody will return in place of Jonny Allen.
When these two sides met at the Glynn on the 9.12. 17 Academy won 29 – 12 with former Belfast Harlequins centre Mark Wylie scoring two tries.
Larne Head coach Graham Cloke was delighted to see his team return to winning ways as they defeated UUC at the Glynn 27 – 10 last Sat. Again selection will not be finalised until Thursday night. The coach has a few injuries to check on. He is aware that Academy are going very well with his players facing a big challenge.
Grosvenor v Randalstown
When these two teams met at Nelisbrook Park on the 16th December spectators were treated to thrilling spectacle by two teams who wanted to play open running rugby with Grosvenor winning 36 – 25. Grosvenor have an eight point advantage and have an opportunity to extend that advantage between them and the chasing pack. Randalstown need the win to close the gap on Grosvenor. All ingredients are their for another entertaining game. Grosvenor remain undefeated in league this season with Randalstown losing out to Grosvenor and Academy.
Randalstown Head coach Gary Longwell is waiting on a number of players recovering from illness and injury before finalising his squad for this weekend.
The team maintained their good form scoring five tries in their 38 – 0 win over Lisburn at Nelisbrook Park last week.
Limavady v Ballymoney
It had been a difficult first half to the season for Limavady Head coach Mark Nicholl has his young squad struggled in Div 2. Following a narrow 17 – 16 home loss to Ards on the 16th December Limavady went on to win their next three games against Malone seconds, PSNI and Banbridge seconds in the Towns Cup before going down narrowly to Ards 15 – 12 last Saturday. They sit in 7th place five points ahead of 8th place Lisburn as the team look for further league points to consolidate their place in the league after securing promotion from Div 3 two seasons ago. Limavady were previously a Div 1 side and have ambitions to return to that level.
Patience has been the key for Mark Nicholl has he lost two of his three quarters Mark Woods to Coleraine and Robert Lamberton to Rainey OB in the close season. The coach has informed Limavady he is standing down at the end of the season.
In the game against Ards he felt his team should have won like the home game they lost on the 16th December. He thought for long periods his team were the better side despite up to six players missing. The conditions suited the big Ards pack as it was very heavy underfoot with them using their big men to good effect.
Limavady are a young side who are learning every week although they have to learn to close out games better than they have done. This week will be another huge test for the team againsta strong Ballymoney side but one the coaches are looking forward too.
The new incoming Head coach at Limavady will have a young talented squad to work with and hopefully can help them to fulfil their potential.
Limavady have already met Ballymoney twice this season Limavady lost a Millar McCall Wylie Junior Cup match 36 – 17 at the John Hunter Grounds on the 30. 9 17. They met again in the league at Kilraughts Road on the 9th December when Ballymoney won 45 – 12 after Limavady went 12 – 0 up.
Ballymoney slipped five points behind second place Randalstown after losing 11 – 0 at Academy last week. For the coaching team of Jonny Hanna, James Cleland and Marty Irwin there is still so much to play for in the remaining months of the season. Junior Cup semi finalists, Opportunity to finish second in league and make the playoffs. Having secured a favourable draw against Ards in the second round of the Towns Cup there is the chance to make the last eight. After being promoted last season Ballymoney have made a clear statement of their intent to return to the top level of the Kukri Ulster Rugby Championship.
Academy’s Jonny Hanna felt his side played the conditions and the pitch better than Ballymoney. His team were unable to look after the ball and had chances to win the game. Academy defended strongly and with their limited chances were able to put points on the board.
This year has been another step up on the learning curve for the Ballymoney playing squad. The players have made great progress with some excellent rugby being played by the 1st and 2nd xv. The challenge for the players is to develop their game to win close games like the one at Academy. The team are in a good position to push for second place, but there are a few teams with the same aim so it will take a big commitment from the Ballymoney players.
The squad have picked up a number of injuries and with an excellent performance from the second xv the coaches are expecting a number of changes to the team that will not be finalised until Thursday night. Limavady have always caused Ballymoney problems this season and have been strong at home. If they are near full strength it will take a massive effort from the Ballymoney players to get something from the game.
With the recent weather the heavy pitch will make for an interesting game.
PSNI v Ards
Newly promoted PSNI have found the going tough in Div 2 after securing promotion last season. Another heavy defeat at home to league leaders Grosvenor at Newforge has the team struggling along with UUC and Lisburn to avoid finishing in the bottom two places.
Ards have won their last four games in the league and Towns Cup after losing 19 -18 at Grosvenor in the league on 2nd December. They had to dig deep to defeat a much improved Limavady team 15 – 12 at Hamilton Park last week. Coaches John West and Scott Young have been able to pick from a settled squad with confidence growing amongst the players they can have a strong second half finish to their season. The coaches are not expecting to make any changes this week.
Ards team played Limavady:
1.Andrew Foster (Captain), 2. Tom Arthur Donnan, 3. Matty Kane, 4. Ross Torney, 5. Gareth McBurney, 6. Danny Patton, 7. Onisi Burekama, 8. Graeme Taylor, 9. Stuart Paul, 10. Mark Banford, 11. Matthew Neill, 12. Trevor Devlin, 13. David Armstrong, 14. Adam Coulter, 15. Paul Cox, 16. John Dowey, 17. Peter Croan.
Points scorers: Graeme Taylor and Gareth McBurney 1 x try each. Paul Cox 2 x cons, 1 x pen.
Injuries continue to rule out Scott Young, Alex Hendrickse and Paddy Bond for this week.
The first game between Ards and the PSNI at Hamilton Park on the 9th December was postponed due to inclement weather.
UUC v Lisburn
Two teams separated by five points UUC are 10th with Lisburn in 8th place. Both have won one league game this season. UUC lost 27 – 10 at Larne last week with Lisburn losing 38 – 0 at Randalstown. Lisburn have lost the last their eight games they have played. Their last win was on the 14th October when they defeated the PSNI 44 -0. The students last win was against Malone seconds 39 -15 in Conference league on the 2nd December. Their only league win came at Limavady on the 7th October when they won 13 – 12.
The first game between Lisburn and UUC at Blaris on the 9th December was postponed due to an unplayable pitch.
KUKRI ULSTER RUGBY CHAMPIONSHIP DIV 3
Cavan (7) v BHSFP (6)
Donegal Town (12) v Letterkenny (9)
Holywood (10) v Civil Service (11)
Newry (8) v Lurgan (1)
Strabane (30 v Donaghadee (2)
Virginia (5) v Monaghan (4)
Preview compiled by George Millar.
In Div 1B of the Ulster Bank All Ireland League Ballynahinch and Banbridge remain in the top four behind leaders Shannon. Ballymena are in 8th place after UL Bohemians had five points deducted for playing an ineligible player otherwise the Eaton Park side would have found themselves in 9th place.
In Div 2A Malone remain leaders after an emphatic 49 – 7 win at the Dub against Queens Uni. Again as last season Highfield and Nenagh Ormond are their nearest challengers. City of Armagh are in 4th place with Queens Uni in 6th with two points separating them.
In Div 2B Rainey OB have closed the gap on Limerick leaders Old Crescent to three points after winning against City of Derry and a rearranged game 15 – 7 at home to Sunday’s Well at the weekend. Dungannon are in 6th place with Belfast Harlequins in 9th and City of Derry in 10th place. The postponed game involving Dungannon and Belfast Harlequins will be played at Stevenson Park this weekend.
In Div 2C Bangor are 5th with Omagh in 6th place with both teams level on 28 points. The goal for both teams is to finish in the top four. You will see from the league table that only 10 points separate Bangor and Omagh from 10th place Tullamore with the County Offaly side playing a postponed game this weekend at home to league leaders Sligo.
This weekend we have the penultimate group matches left in the SONI Ulster Premiership League. In Div 1 City of Armagh are looking to retain the Stevenson Shield they won for the first time last season. They have a four point advantage over second place Banbridge who they meet at the Palace Grounds on Saturday. A bonus point win for City of Armagh will make them favourites to retain the league title with third place Malone travelling to Ballymena. Struggling City of Derry entertain Ballynahinch.
In Div 2 of the SONI Ulster Rugby Premiership Queens University are in pole position to secure promotion to Div 1 next season with a win over Rainey OB. The students have a two point advantage over second place Belfast Harlequins. The Dungannon v Belfast Harlequins has been postponed with Bangor entertaining Omagh at Upritchard Park as the County Tyrone side look to reverse their 19 – 5 defeat two weeks ago at the same venue.
For the 12 Ulster All Ireland league clubs they will be looking to build momentum as they return to action in Round 12 of the UBL on the 27th January.
In the Kukri Ulster Rugby Championship Instonians and Ballyclare remained locked on 47 points at the top of Div 1. Both these teams have now opened up a 18 point gap on third place CIYMS. At the beginning of December you would have said that teams like Carrick, Dromore and Coleraine would be up challenging for a top four finish. It is amazing what can happened in five/six weeks. Carrick find themselves on a losing run of 4 league matches with both Dromore and Coleraine losing their last 3 games. How quickly the fortunes of a team can change. Portadown, Enniskillen and Cooke all picked up important wins to put pressure on Coleraine who have slipped down into 9th place ahead of struggling Clogher Valley who are now eight points adrift in 10th place.
This weekend we have both Instonians and Ballyclare playing at Shaws bridge. Instonians host Enniskillen with Ballyclare travelling to play Cooke. Third place CIYMS entertain a Portadown team who have won their last two games. Both Carrick and Dromore will be looking to end their losing run when they meet at the Tom Simms Memorial Grounds. At the Cran in Fivemiletown the bottom two teams Clogher Valley and Coleraine meet. Who would have ever predicted that these two teams would occupy the bottom two places.
In Div 2 of the Kukri Ulster Rugby Championship Grosvenor have opened up an eight point lead on second place Randalstown with both teams meeting at Gibson Park on Saturday. The first game was a thriller at Nelisbrook on the 16th December when Grosvenor prevailed to win 36 – 25. Expect another high scoring encounter between two talented teams who like to play open running rugby. The surprise result last weekend was the defeat of Ballymoney 11 – 0 at Academy. The Roughfort side have continued their good form under Head coach Gareth Lynn winning 7/8 league games as they make a late push for second place and the playoffs. Academy entertain neighbours Larne with third place Ballymoney looking to keep up their pursuit of Randalstown when they travel to the John Hunter Grounds to play a resurgent Limavady side who narrowly went down 15 – 12 at Ards last Saturday. wi Limavady had won their previous three games in the league/Conference League and the Towns Cup prior to their loss at Ards..
There is a crucial bottom of the table clash between UUC and Lisburn on the North Coast with both sides needing a win.
In Div 3 of the Kukri Ulster Rugby Championship Lurgan and Donaghadee remain the pacesetters. Both teams recorded big wins at the weekend with Lurgan defeating Donegal Town 77 – 0 scoring 11 tries whilst Donaghadee recorded a 74 – 0 win over Cavan scoring 12 tries. With three points separating the two teams Donaghadee have opened up a 13 point advantage over third place Strabane. In Round 15 leaders Lurgan travel to play Newry with Donaghadee travelling to the North West to play Strabane this weekend. Will it come down to the final game in Round 22 on the 14th April when Donaghadee meet Lurgan at Donaldson Park to decide the league winner. A lot can happen between now and that final game.
ULSTER BANK ALL IRELAND LEAGUE DIV 2B
Dungannon (6) v Belfast Harlequins (9)
Head coach Andy Hughes has felt the frustration as he prepares a team to play Belfast Harlequins on Saturday. Several players have been involved in doing exams and along with the weather it has been difficult to build momentum after a good run before Xmas. Postponement of games involving City of Derry and Belfast Harlequins has not helped. Injury rules out second row JJ Kane along with props Sean O’Hagan and Rodney Bennett. One positive piece of news is that back row forward Jonah Mau’u has returned from New Zealand. Out half Chris Swash was involved with the Ulster A squad last week against the Cornish Pirates. The coach is awaiting news on his availability this week.
Belfast Harlequins came up just short losing 22 – 18 to Dublin side Wanderers in their re arranged game at Deramore last Saturday.
Quins team: 1. Mark McGrath, 2. Steven Weir, 3. Rory Harrison, 4. Danny Annett (Captain), 5. Callum Leckey, 6. Jaz Andress, 7. Daryl Marshall, 8Toby Mannus, 10. Mattie McKenzie, 11. Matthew Robinson, 12. Christian Bennison, 13. Mark Gribben, 14. Richie McKee, 15. Mark Glover, 16. Saul Herdman, 17. Matthew Bourne, 18. Zach Jordan, 19. David Devine, 20. Aodhan Gallagher.
Points scorers: Penalty try, Toby Mannus 1 x try, Mattie McKenzie 2 x pens.
SONI ULSTER PREMIERSHIP DIV1
Ballymena (4) v Malone (3)
City of Armagh (1) v Banbridge (2)
City of Derry (6) v Ballynahinch (5)
Ballymena v Malone
Ballymena coaches Andy Graham, Alex McCloy and Bryan Young have selected the following squad to play on Saturday. They include front row options of Houston Bonnar, Nacho Crespo, Chris Cundell, Tim Savoury and Ryan Matheison. Second row from Mark Foster, David Whann and Connor Smyth. Back row from Aidrian Hamilton, Stephen Mulholland, Joe Thompson and Dominic Gallagher. Backs are from David O’Hara, Glenn Baillie, Stephen Shaw, Dean Reynolds, Jonny Rossborough, James Beattie, John Loughlin and James Boville. Injury rules our Rodger McBurney, Matthew Norris, James Taggart and Andrew Ferguson.
Malone Head coach Paddy Armstrong will rotate his squad this weekend with the seconds having no match after their 13 – 13 draw with Ballynahinch seconds at Gibson Park last Friday night. Tom Dullage will come into the second row with seconds Captain Ricky Greenwood starting at loose head. Centre Michael Cartmill makes a welcome return after playing against Ballynahinch seconds.
City of Armagh v Banbridge
It was a case of the Armagh players being given a night off on Tuesday from training after their efforts against Cork Constitution on Saturday. Assistant coach Chris Parker described the game as very physical with a number of players picking up injuries that will require late fitness decisions to be made on Thursday night. John Faloon who missed the game last week will face a late fitness test. Centre Johnny Pollock is unavailable with Chris Cousins picking up an ankle injury against Cork Con that will rule him out for several weeks. Evan Crummie gets an opportunity to start in the centre with second row Peter Starrett back in contention for a starting place after recovering from injury. There is limited opportunity to rest players with the 1st and 2nd xv teams involved in busy playing schedules. Another example is the meeting of Armagh seconds and Ballynahinch seconds at Ballymacarn Park this weekend that will see a re run of the Millar McCall Wylie Junior Cup Final.
One player who has impressed me in the Armagh pack this season is their former Ulster under 19 second row Josh McKinley. Chris Parker has described his progress as considerable as he has taken on the responsibility of the team’s lineout calls. He was unlucky not to pick up the MOM award in the final of the First Trust Senior Cup Final against Ballymena such was his dominance of the lineout. Surprised Ulster have not looked at his performances this season. He put in a competitive performance against Ulster second row Matthew Dalton in the Senior Cup semi Final between City of Armagh and Malone.
Banbridge Head coach Daniel Soper will have no Ulster players available this week with the Cromie family away on skiing holidays. The match on Saturday presents opportunities for several players to get a start on the 1st xv. The coach is looking for his team to put in a good performance before heading back into the UBL on Saturday week. He agrees a win at Armagh would put his team in a great position to win the league. It would take a very good performance as Armagh are in great form.
City of Derry v Ballynahinch
Influential City of Derry scrum half Tyler Rogers-Holden has returned to New Zealand. Out half Neil Burns not available for remainder of season. Sam Duffy, Paddy Blennerhurst, Simon Logue and Stephen Corr unavailable for selection this weekend. Several other players are injured and unavailable. Difficult situation at the Club. It will be Thursday night before a team is finalised.
SONI ULSTER PREMIERSHIP DIV 2
Bangor (6) v Omagh (5)
Dungannon (3) v Belfast Harlequins (2). Match postponed due to rearranged UBL game.
Queens University (1) v Rainey OB (4). Played Thursday 18th January 2018. Kick off 7.30PM
Bangor v Omagh
1st xv Manager Ricky Armstrong has been pleased that Bangor have been able to add former Bangor Grammar school hooker Max Montgomery to their 1st xv squad under dual status arrangements with neighbours Donaghadee who hold his registration. Another plus for the Bangor coaches has been the progress Ross McCloskey has been making in the unfamiliar position of out half as he forms an exciting partnership with Lewis Brett.
Bangor have enjoyed the week off after defeating Omagh 19 – 5 in the UBL two weeks ago at Upritchard Park. The focus for the coaches and players is the resumption of the UBL on the 27th January with a game away to Bective followed by another away trip to Bruff. Like Omagh Bangor will need to fight for every point in this highly competitive league.
Selection has yet to be finalised with all three Bangor teams playing this weekend.
Omagh Head coach Phil Marshall is resting a number of forwards and backs for this fixture at Bangor on Saturday. He is giving a number of players who need game time their opportunity. The rest of the team will be made up of second xv players who have been knocking on the door for a chance to impress the coaches. Squad will be finalised on Thursday night. The goal before the resumption of the All Ireland league is to get as many players ready for the next 2 UBL games.
Queens Uni v Rainey OB
From Ian McAvoy 1st xv Manager Queens Uni. Game against Rainey has been brought forward to Thursday night. Pitch inspection on Thursday will decide if game goes ahead.
Queens squad along lines of:
1.Anton Lupari, 2. David Swann, 3. Andrew Clingan, 4. Ali Burke, 5. David Whitten, 6. Nigel Simpson (Captain), 7. Jonny Lees, 8. Gary Dillon, 9. John Creighton, 10. Richie McMaster, 11. Conor McKee, 12. Rory Bell, 13. Jonny Milliken, 14. Curtis Dundas, 15. Jack Milligan, 16. Jonny Black, 17. Marc Campbell, 18. Curtis Stewart, 19. Conor Shiels, 20. Gerard Treanor.
The focus for Rainey OB Head coach John Andrew’s is the next two UBL games against Skerries and Wanderers on the 27th Jan and the 3rd February. His team have closed the gap on leaders Old Crescent to three points. There is real concern over the availability of South African hooker Brad Roberts after he picked up a serious knee injury against Sunday’s Well last Saturday with the club awaiting results of a MRI Scan. Out half Andrew Magrath picked up a dead leg in the same match. Good news for the coach is that he will welcome back Jason Bloomfield and Josh McIIroy for the UBL matches. Rainey as a club continue to make progress with their seconds topping Provincial league 2. Under age development continues at pace through the clubs successful under 20 and Youth teams as the club build for the future.
ULSTER RUGBY PREMIERSHIP 2nd xv LEAGUE
Ballynahinch seconds v City of Armagh seconds
Banbridge seconds v Ballymena seconds
KUKRI ULSTER RUGBY CHAMPIONSHIP DIV 1
CIYMS (3) v Portadown (8)
Carrickfergus (5) v Dromore (4)
Clogher Valley (10) v Coleraine (9)
Cooke (6) v Ballyclare (2)
Instonians (1) v Enniskillen (7)
CIYMS v Portadown
As Head coach Gareth Fry put it CI are no different to other clubs in dealing with the flu bug within their squad over the last couple of weeks that has meant a lot of changes to team selection. The coach is hoping to have a few players returning this week whilst he awaits injury updates on others. Again he will not finalise his team until Thursday night. Gareth missed the teams match at Ballyclare due to Schools commitments with reports suggesting the CI team played really well against a very strong physical team in pretty terrible conditions. He felt his team were unlucky not to get a losing bonus point especially with 6 players unavailable in the forwards. What has brought about the change in the CI team over the last six weeks is the improved defence. CI as a team will always create opportunities but unfortunately at the beginning of the season the team were letting in too many scores. The players are starting to trust each other with the team spirit growing as a result.
His players are aware that Portadown are a form team and much changed from when they played them last September. His team are expecting another hard game. As results in this league show there are no “gimmies” in this league.
Portadown Head coach Richard Hedley was pleased with his team’s late win over Dromore on Saturday. Unfortunately it came at a price with injuries to three key backs, Captain Craig Woods, Dave Whitten and Jack Orr. There is one change to the forwards with Matthew Wilson returning in the front row. Team selection to be finalised on Thursday night.
Veteran number 8 Stuart Lamb has returned to the team along with the experienced Diarmuid O’Kane and Ollie Montells to guide this young squad to wins over Enniskillen and Dromore. Lamb scored the bonus point fourth try at Enniskillen and the crucial decisive try in the teams 18 – 17 win at home to Dromore last Saturday.
When these two teams met at Chambers Park on the 16.9.17 CI won 31 – 19.
CI Team that played Clogher Valley in 32 – 16 win at the Cran on the 6th January 2018.
1.Ali Coulson, 2. Scott McNarry, 3. Timothy Atcheson, 4. Cory Tipping, 5. Mark McConkey, 6. Scott Dowle, 7. Jason Gilliland, 8. Stuart Ferguson, 9. Cameron Stewart, 10. Paddy Beverland. 11. Matthew Kilgore, 12. Callum Irvine (captain), 13. Matty Butler, 14. Craig Devlin, 15. Nathan Burns, 16. A Walmsley, 17. Ruari Meharg.
Points scorers: Craig Devlin 2 x tries, Jason Gilliland and Nathan Burns 1 x try each, Matthew Kilgore 3 x cons, 2 x pens.
CI team lost 13 – 5 to Ballyclare on 13th January 2018.
1.Gavin Woods, 2. Scott McNarry, 3. Timothy Atcheson, 4. Cory Tipping, 5. J Ryan, 6. Scott Dowle, 7. Jason Gilliland, 8. Mark McConkey, 9. Cameron Stewart, 10. Paddy Beverland, 11. Matthew Kilgore, 12. Callum Irvine (Captain), 13. Matty Butler, 14. Craig Devlin. 15. Nathan Burns, 16. D Kealey, 17. Eunan Nelson.
Points scorer: Nathan Burns 1 x try.
Players unavailable include Peter Raine, David Cobaine, Ali Coulson, Paddy Aiken, Aaron Kilpatrick, Rob Haldane, Elliott Boyd.
Carrickfergus v Dromore
Crucial game for both teams with Carrick having lost their last 4 league games and Dromore their last 3 games. When you look at these losses both teams have experienced it has been by small margins. Both teams have to develop the resilience that Instonians and Ballyclare have to close out tight games.
Jeremy Ogle, Director of Rugby at Dromore, feels their last three defeats have been very disappointing in the league. It has been a case of game management letting the team down. In the defeats against Ballyclare and Portadown the team conceded late tries to lose both games when they had opportunities to keep the opposition out of their twenty two.
In an attempt to improve on areas that the team need to improve on the coaching team of Johnny Cullen and Jamie Kirk have added video analysis to their match days. The goal is that regular viewing can help the coaches and players to concentrate on the areas that the team and players need to improve on.
Dromore points scorers against Portadown: Blair McDonald and Brian McClearn 1 x try each. Lee Steenson 1 x con and 2 x pens.
When these two teams met at Barban Hill on the 23.9.17 Carrick won a close contest 13 – 10.
Clogher Valley v Coleraine.
After defeating Carrickfergus and Dromore in the league Clogher Valley went on to lose their next two games against CIYMS and a heavy 48 – 7 defeat away to Cooke last Saturday. The alarming aspect in the defeat at Cooke was the ease with which the Cooke team were able to score seven tries with poor defence making it easy for the Cooke backs. The Clogher forwards held their own despite missing number 8 Ryan Wilson who was absent with flu. The unavailability of two experienced backs in Dillon Crawford and Andy Breen did not help. Injuries to Matthew Keyes and Cullen added to the woes of the Clogher team with experienced back rower BJ Wilson leaving the pitch with a hamstring injury. Key back Toby McAlpine is unavailable this week.
This week they face a Coleraine team like themselves who need the points after suffering three consecutive league defeats. The omens are not good for Clogher. Coleraine have already defeated Clogher twice this season. In the league Coleraine won 26 – 12 at Rugby Avenue on the 30 .9.17.
When the two teams met at the Cran in the Millar McCall Wylie Junior Cup on the 30.9.17 Coleraine ran out convincing winners 74 – 17.
Coleraine have suffered defeats against Instonians, CIYMS and Dromore to slip into 9th place after being promoted as Div 2 champions last season. Head coach Richard Boyd has much work to do after the success of last season.
Cooke v Ballyclare
As Cooke Head coach Colin Atkinson stated, the league is proving very close again this year with any team capable of beating any other team on the day. He was delighted with the five points against Clogher Valley. The players played low errors and were very disciplined throughout the game. This approach made a huge difference after recent disappointing performances.
Saturday will be a big day at the club indeed with both Cooke 1st and 2nd xv sides at home to Ballyclare teams. Cooke women will follow the men on the main pitch kicking off against Tullamore at 5PM in the Womens All Ireland League.
Selection for Ballyclare will be finalised on Thursday night. If there are no fresh injury concerns the panel will remain similar to the Clogher game.
Cooke v Clogher Valley 1. Jonathan McClune, 2. Curtis Montgomery, 3. Liam Bennett, 4. Jonathan Walsh, 5. Alex Quigley, 6. Matthew Elliott. 7. Calum Robinson, 8. Jason Lyons, 9. Ryan Flavelle, 10. Andrew Hanna, 11. Jonathan Backus, 12. Kyle Mitchell, 13. Philip Cartmill, 14. Alan Gourley, 15. Alex Gourley (Captain), 16. Russell Hunter, 17. Andrew Pollock.
Points scorers: Jonathan Backus 3 x tries, Alex Gourley, Jason Lyons, Kyle Mitchell, Andrew Pollock 1 x try each. Alan Gourley 3 x cons, 1 x pen. Alex Gourley 2 x cons.
Ballyclare Head coach Mike McKeever was delighted with the great character and resilience shown by his team to win with the last play away to Dromore and then battle out a home win against a strong CIYMS side last week. It has been a real squad effort by the players to get the wins. The pack have been superb in the past three games at scrum time with Ricky Lutton having real standout games along with the rest of the front rowers Rory Henderson, Dean Jones, and Matthew Coulter. Captain Grant Bartley has been leading the side brilliantly and is thriving under the role of guiding his team alongside past captain Robert Boyd. Dave Clarke had a strong game as always last week and is supported by by the back row rotation of Gary Weatherup, Ryan Tweed, Aaron Playfair and Paul Robinson.
The Ballyclare backs have been very consistent this season in attack and defence and their best attribute is their versatility to play in a range of positions as a starting place butt also to change during a game but with the poor conditions underfoot it has been challenging to play attractive rugby so it has really been about knuckling down and get the hard earned wins.
This Saturday will look to field close to the same side as the previous three matches and continue to rotate the bench to ensure the squad stays sharp. Seven of the squad are under 21 with only three players over the age of 28 years. The coach is looking forward to playing at Shaws bridge and will prepare the Ballyclare players for a challenging game.
Instonians v Enniskillen
Director of Rugby William Leacock has been pleased with the progress of the three adult teams at Instonians this season with all three teams competitive in their leagues. Kevin McKee has been doing a great work with the clubs 3rd xv and is developing a competitive squad with a good number of young players alongside a few experienced older players.
The 1st and 2nd xv teams have been going well of late in their leagues with numbers consistent at training. Unfortunately injuries are starting to build up. Rory McCurry has been ruled out with an ankle injury. The coach is hoping number 8 Ben Alexander will return from injury this week and join a similar squad that won at Coleraine.
When these two teams met at Mullaghmeen on the 23.9.17 Instonians ran out convincing winners 51 – 5.
Enniskillen Head coach Willy Gibson was delighted with the performance of his team in their 18 – 7 win over Carrickfergus last week. It made up for the disappointing 24 – 0 loss at home to Portadown the previous week. The players are just taking it one game at a time. Their focus is to cut out the errors and enjoy playing their games. He is aware that Instonians will be a good test for his young team. He is anticipating a few changes to his backline with selection to be finalised on Thursday night.
KUKRI ULSTER RUGBY CHAMPIONSHIP DIV 2
Academy (4) v Larne (6)
Grosvenor (1) v Randalstown (2)
Limavady (7) v Ballymoney (3)
PSNI (9) v Ards (5)
UUC (10) v Lisburn (8)
Academy v Larne
Impressive run Academy are on at present having won 7/8 league games played to challenge for 2nd place in the league and the playoffs. Their only defeat being at Ards on the 4.11.17 when they inexplicably lost 57 – 12 after leading 12 – 0.
Head coach Gareth Lynn is pleased with how the team are performing. The 11 – 0 win over Ballymoney at Roughfort was built on the back of a strong defensive performance in the 1st half. But as he puts its only a good result if the team back it up with a win over Larne.
Academy team v Ballymoney:
1.Peter Jackson, 2. Adam Martin, 3. Troy Wilson, 4. Kyle Gregg, 5. Brian Cahill, 6. Keith Dobbin, 7. Stewart Martin, 8. Richard Henderson, 9. Dave Kenny, 10. Chris Cooper. 11. Jamie Wilson, 12. Mark Wylie, 13. Lewis Davidson, 14. David McCullough, 15. Simon Beattie, 16. Jonny Allen, 17. Ross Bryans.
Points scorers: Dave Kenny 1 x try. Chris Cooper 2 x pens.
Only change expected for Larne game is Lee Moody will return in place of Jonny Allen.
When these two sides met at the Glynn on the 9.12. 17 Academy won 29 – 12 with former Belfast Harlequins centre Mark Wylie scoring two tries.
Larne Head coach Graham Cloke was delighted to see his team return to winning ways as they defeated UUC at the Glynn 27 – 10 last Sat. Again selection will not be finalised until Thursday night. The coach has a few injuries to check on. He is aware that Academy are going very well with his players facing a big challenge.
Grosvenor v Randalstown
When these two teams met at Nelisbrook Park on the 16th December spectators were treated to thrilling spectacle by two teams who wanted to play open running rugby with Grosvenor winning 36 – 25. Grosvenor have an eight point advantage and have an opportunity to extend that advantage between them and the chasing pack. Randalstown need the win to close the gap on Grosvenor. All ingredients are their for another entertaining game. Grosvenor remain undefeated in league this season with Randalstown losing out to Grosvenor and Academy.
Randalstown Head coach Gary Longwell is waiting on a number of players recovering from illness and injury before finalising his squad for this weekend.
The team maintained their good form scoring five tries in their 38 – 0 win over Lisburn at Nelisbrook Park last week.
Limavady v Ballymoney
It had been a difficult first half to the season for Limavady Head coach Mark Nicholl has his young squad struggled in Div 2. Following a narrow 17 – 16 home loss to Ards on the 16th December Limavady went on to win their next three games against Malone seconds, PSNI and Banbridge seconds in the Towns Cup before going down narrowly to Ards 15 – 12 last Saturday. They sit in 7th place five points ahead of 8th place Lisburn as the team look for further league points to consolidate their place in the league after securing promotion from Div 3 two seasons ago. Limavady were previously a Div 1 side and have ambitions to return to that level.
Patience has been the key for Mark Nicholl has he lost two of his three quarters Mark Woods to Coleraine and Robert Lamberton to Rainey OB in the close season. The coach has informed Limavady he is standing down at the end of the season.
In the game against Ards he felt his team should have won like the home game they lost on the 16th December. He thought for long periods his team were the better side despite up to six players missing. The conditions suited the big Ards pack as it was very heavy underfoot with them using their big men to good effect.
Limavady are a young side who are learning every week although they have to learn to close out games better than they have done. This week will be another huge test for the team againsta strong Ballymoney side but one the coaches are looking forward too.
The new incoming Head coach at Limavady will have a young talented squad to work with and hopefully can help them to fulfil their potential.
Limavady have already met Ballymoney twice this season Limavady lost a Millar McCall Wylie Junior Cup match 36 – 17 at the John Hunter Grounds on the 30. 9 17. They met again in the league at Kilraughts Road on the 9th December when Ballymoney won 45 – 12 after Limavady went 12 – 0 up.
Ballymoney slipped five points behind second place Randalstown after losing 11 – 0 at Academy last week. For the coaching team of Jonny Hanna, James Cleland and Marty Irwin there is still so much to play for in the remaining months of the season. Junior Cup semi finalists, Opportunity to finish second in league and make the playoffs. Having secured a favourable draw against Ards in the second round of the Towns Cup there is the chance to make the last eight. After being promoted last season Ballymoney have made a clear statement of their intent to return to the top level of the Kukri Ulster Rugby Championship.
Academy’s Jonny Hanna felt his side played the conditions and the pitch better than Ballymoney. His team were unable to look after the ball and had chances to win the game. Academy defended strongly and with their limited chances were able to put points on the board.
This year has been another step up on the learning curve for the Ballymoney playing squad. The players have made great progress with some excellent rugby being played by the 1st and 2nd xv. The challenge for the players is to develop their game to win close games like the one at Academy. The team are in a good position to push for second place, but there are a few teams with the same aim so it will take a big commitment from the Ballymoney players.
The squad have picked up a number of injuries and with an excellent performance from the second xv the coaches are expecting a number of changes to the team that will not be finalised until Thursday night. Limavady have always caused Ballymoney problems this season and have been strong at home. If they are near full strength it will take a massive effort from the Ballymoney players to get something from the game.
With the recent weather the heavy pitch will make for an interesting game.
PSNI v Ards
Newly promoted PSNI have found the going tough in Div 2 after securing promotion last season. Another heavy defeat at home to league leaders Grosvenor at Newforge has the team struggling along with UUC and Lisburn to avoid finishing in the bottom two places.
Ards have won their last four games in the league and Towns Cup after losing 19 -18 at Grosvenor in the league on 2nd December. They had to dig deep to defeat a much improved Limavady team 15 – 12 at Hamilton Park last week. Coaches John West and Scott Young have been able to pick from a settled squad with confidence growing amongst the players they can have a strong second half finish to their season. The coaches are not expecting to make any changes this week.
Ards team played Limavady:
1.Andrew Foster (Captain), 2. Tom Arthur Donnan, 3. Matty Kane, 4. Ross Torney, 5. Gareth McBurney, 6. Danny Patton, 7. Onisi Burekama, 8. Graeme Taylor, 9. Stuart Paul, 10. Mark Banford, 11. Matthew Neill, 12. Trevor Devlin, 13. David Armstrong, 14. Adam Coulter, 15. Paul Cox, 16. John Dowey, 17. Peter Croan.
Points scorers: Graeme Taylor and Gareth McBurney 1 x try each. Paul Cox 2 x cons, 1 x pen.
Injuries continue to rule out Scott Young, Alex Hendrickse and Paddy Bond for this week.
The first game between Ards and the PSNI at Hamilton Park on the 9th December was postponed due to inclement weather.
UUC v Lisburn
Two teams separated by five points UUC are 10th with Lisburn in 8th place. Both have won one league game this season. UUC lost 27 – 10 at Larne last week with Lisburn losing 38 – 0 at Randalstown. Lisburn have lost the last their eight games they have played. Their last win was on the 14th October when they defeated the PSNI 44 -0. The students last win was against Malone seconds 39 -15 in Conference league on the 2nd December. Their only league win came at Limavady on the 7th October when they won 13 – 12.
The first game between Lisburn and UUC at Blaris on the 9th December was postponed due to an unplayable pitch.
KUKRI ULSTER RUGBY CHAMPIONSHIP DIV 3
Cavan (7) v BHSFP (6)
Donegal Town (12) v Letterkenny (9)
Holywood (10) v Civil Service (11)
Newry (8) v Lurgan (1)
Strabane (30 v Donaghadee (2)
Virginia (5) v Monaghan (4)
Preview compiled by George Millar.