Cup joy for Coleraine Seconds

Coleraine Seconds finally got their first round Crawford Cup game played on Saturday, away to Ballyclare Seconds.

The match had been postponed a number of times and finally went ahead at the weekend. The wait did not disappoint Coleraine who came home the victors, winning 11-14 in a hard fought encounter.

It was pretty even for the first 15 minutes, Coleraine making good ground through their pack and Ballyclare answering through some strong running by their 10 and 12.

With 20 minutes gone Coleraine captain Paul Shiels made a great run into the opposition 22 and the home defence gave away a penalty. Outhalf Cameron Jinks took the three points.

From the restart Coleraine’s Andrew Neely made a strong run linking with brother Greg who broke through into the Ballyclare 22 and yet another penalty was awarded. Jinks was on target again.

Ballyclare got a penalty and three points just at half time to leave the score 3-6 at the break.

There were strong words for both sides at the interval and immediately from the off in the second half Ballyclare attacked and scored an unconverted try.

Once again Coleraine rallied to march upfield and were awarded a further penalty. Jinks made sure of the points.

With ten minutes to go Coleraine scrum half Andrew McKnight took a quick penalty and broke the Ballyclare lines. On his shoulder was second row Ronnie Caskey who quickly passed to Stephen Callaghan to sprint clear and dive over the try line to score in the corner.

Ballyclare scored with another penalty in the last few minutes to bring the score to 11-14 but it was too little too late and Coleraine held on to take the win.

Coleraine now progress to the next round of the Crawford Cup, yet again ensuring cup action for the club to enjoy and support.

The side have a week off on Saturday and on 19 January they are away again, back to Ballyclare, but this time in the league.

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