Academy dominate early stages but lose season opener

BALLYMENA Academy 1st XV began their season with a home fixture against Ballyclare High School.

With their Ulster Schools’ players missing, coaches John Andrews and Gavin Murray, took the opportunity to look at some new players.

Academy dominated the early exchanges pinning Ballyclare deep in their own half. Many promising moves broke down due to handling errors and lack of match practice.

Academy should have taken the lead in the 15th minute when following a good move down the left, the final pass on the overlap was not made and the opportunity was lost. In the 17th minute Academy were awarded a penalty in front of the posts but the kick was missed. Academy continued to press, but were unable to break down the Ballyclare defense.

Half time: Ballymena Academy 1st XV 0, Ballyclare High School 0

With the wind at their backs, Ballyclare came more into the game, and in the 50th minute took the lead with a well struck penalty, This seemed to spur Academy into life and in the 52nd minute following a good move down the left Nicholas Stirling scored a great try to give Academy the lead.

Ballyclare came roaring back and in the 60th minute scored a try to put them 8-5 ahead.

Following sustained pressure on the Ballyclare line, the visitors broke away to score a again.

Academy pressed hard, but resolute defence denied them any scoring opportunities.

Final score: Ballymena Academy 1st XV 5, Ballyclare High School 13.

Team: G Hargy, M. Caithness, M. McMurray, D. Scott, M. Rea, P. McKerr, P. Hayes, T. Patton (Captain), J. Fleming, P. Gillespie, P. Storey, N. Stirling, J. Foster.

N. McGowan, D. Geddis.