Cambridge make no mistake in quarter-final replay

CAMBRIDGE House made no mistake in their Schools Trophy quarter-final replay against Antrim Grammar last week.

After drawing the first game 10-10 in Antrim, Cambridge made full amends with a crushing 38-0 win to set up a home semi-final against Carrickfergus Grammar School this Wednesday.

Maury McDowell at out-half stole the show with 23 points, he kicked three first half penalties to put Cambridge House 9-0 ahead after 20 minutes, and despite total control, House only put the gloss on the first half with a try from Matthew Harkness in the last minute.

McDowell converted and the Ballymena school led 16-0 at half time.

Antrim, with a prevailing breeze, had to score early in the second half, but it was House who took over.

A drive-over maul from a line out touched down by Gary Boyd in the 45th minute meant Antrim had to throw caution to the wind.

They were forced to run from their own half which proved their downfall as Luke Murphy scored with a searing return run and then McDowell with a jinking individual try. The match closed fittingly, with McDowell kicking a penalty from 35 yards.

The forwards were outstanding and had a stranglehold on Antrim, giving the backs room to capitalise on possession, and with captain Adrian Hamilton leading from the front, Cambridge House were worthy winners.