🤝 Belfast Royal Academy v Coleraine Grammar School
🗓 Friday 6 March, 2pm
🏟 Affidea Stadium
🏆 Danske Bank Schools' Shield
Belfast Royal Academy
Belfast Royal Academy’s journey to the final has been defined by high-scoring drama and nerves of steel. In their quarter-final clash against Royal School Dungannon, BRA showcased their offensive depth in a 33-21 victory, with tries from James Murray, Daniel Bell, Oscar Coiley, and Zach Archer. Connor McVicker proved to be the difference-maker with the boot, contributing 13 points through conversions and penalties. That composure was tested even further in the semi-final against Royal School Armagh. In a back-and-forth encounter, BRA trailed until the final moments of the game. A "last play" try—added to scores by McVicker, Daniel Bell, Alex French, and Jayden Irwin—set the stage for McVicker to slot a pressure-filled conversion, securing a breath-taking 27-26 win and punching their ticket to the final.
Coleraine Grammar School
Coleraine Grammar School has reached the final by balancing explosive attacking play with a grit-it-out defensive mindset. They opened their account in the quarter-finals with a dominant display against Friends’ School Lisburn, racking up six tries in a 39-0 shutout. Luke McMillan, Lewis Marshall, Cody Moffatt, and Joe Coates all crossed the line, while Oliver McClean stood out with a brace. However, their semi-final against Ballyclare High School required a much grittier performance. In a tight, low-scoring affair, Coleraine relied on a standout performance from Joshua Hawe and a vital try from Alec Doherty. Combined with the reliable boot of Ben Todd, who provided five crucial points via a conversion and a penalty, Coleraine held on for a 10-7 victory to ensure their place at Affidea Stadium.
Entering and Exiting the Stadium
Turnstiles will be open from 1pm. Turnstiles will be open at Onslow Parade and Mount Merrion Avenue. All patrons will require a ticket scanned to enter through turnstiles.