U14 Billy Latimer Cup: Dungannon Secure Historic First Title
Dungannon claimed a landmark 29–19 victory over Strabane, lifting the U14 Billy Latimer Cup for the first time.
Strabane started brightly, applying early pressure and taking the lead through Charlie Baxter. Dungannon responded with confidence, as Patrick Coyle crossed for a converted try to edge them ahead. A tactical kicking exchange followed before Dungannon struck again, extending their lead to 14–5.
Strabane remained firmly in the contest, with Baxter grabbing his second try, converted by Alfie Boyle, to narrow the deficit to just two points. However, Dungannon finished the first half strongly, moving the ball through the hands to send Danny Daly over in the corner.
In the second half, Dungannon’s control and attacking shape proved decisive. Further tries, including a well-taken score from Matthew Richards and a strong finish from fullback Cillian Curran, allowed them to stretch their lead. Strabane continued to battle and had the final say through a converted try from Boyle, but Dungannon’s earlier work ensured a deserved and historic win.
Full Time U14s Billy Latimer Cup Dungannon 29–19 Strabane
StrataTimber Player of Merit awards were presented to Jenson Registe (Dungannon) and Jack Sproule (Strabane).
U16 RB Fleming Cup: Monaghan Hold Nerve in Tight Encounter
The U16 final delivered a tense and evenly matched contest, with Monaghan edging Banbridge 10–5 in a game where defences dominated.
Banbridge entered as slight favourites and controlled early territory, but Monaghan showed resilience to withstand sustained pressure, including a missed penalty attempt. As the first half drew to a close, Monaghan capitalised on their opportunity, with Lorcan Mantell crossing to give them a narrow 5–0 lead.
The second half followed a similar pattern, with both sides struggling to convert chances. Monaghan came close on several occasions, being held up over the line multiple times, while Banbridge eventually found a breakthrough through James Carrivan to level the scores.
With the game finely poised, Monaghan delivered the crucial moment late on, as Tadhg Sherry crossed for what proved to be the winning try. A determined defensive effort in the closing stages ensured they held on to secure a hard-earned victory.
Full Time U16s RB Fleming Cup Monaghan 10–5 Banbridge
StrataTimber Player of Merit honours went to Darragh Clerkin (Monaghan) and Ross Penny (Banbridge).
U18 CE Bowman Cup: Virginia Claim Historic First Title
The U18 CE Bowman Cup Final provided a dramatic conclusion to the day, as Virginia defeated Armagh 38–27 to lift the trophy for the first time.
Armagh entered the final as defending champions and league winners, but it was Virginia who made the stronger start. Oscar Cunningham opened the scoring, before an influential display from Ayrton Pieneer – contributing both tries and conversions – helped Virginia establish a commanding 21–5 half-time lead.
Armagh responded with determination, using powerful pick-and-drive play to build momentum and reduce the deficit through Alfie Hughes. Early in the second half, another try brought them closer, but Virginia consistently found answers, with Eoin Clarke and later Daniel Pieneer adding crucial scores.
The game surged into life in the closing stages as Armagh mounted a spirited comeback, narrowing the gap to just four points with a series of well-worked tries. However, Virginia held their composure under pressure, and a decisive late converted try from James Lennon sealed a famous victory and ensured their name was added to the trophy for the first time.
Full Time U18s CE Bowman Cup Virginia 38–27 Armagh
StrataTimber Player of Merit awards were presented to Brian McCormick (Virginia) and Cormac Murphy (Armagh).
A Fitting Finale to the Youth Season
The Youth Cup Finals once again highlighted the depth of talent across the game, with each match showcasing skill, resilience and sportsmanship.
From Dungannon’s historic breakthrough to Monaghan’s grit and Virginia’s milestone triumph, the day at Affidea Stadium provided a fitting celebration of the season and an exciting glimpse into the future of the sport.
