Foyle suffer Danske Bank Ulster Schools’ Cup exit

David Barnett’s side went down 22-10 at the Newtownards venue.

Regent House were made to work hard for this win despite dominating things for long periods.

The home side had the majority of the possession in the early stages of the game but they failed to turn this possession into points during the opening quarter.

Twenty five minutes into the game a “Garryowen” from Alex McDonnell, the Foyle College captain, caused disarray in the Regent defence.

The ball was spilled and Robbie House latched on to the free possession provided. He outpaced the defence to touch down for a try. McDonnell added the conversion for a 7-0 lead.

Just before the interval the Regent pack produced quality possession that was well used by the backs. Taylor Nutt created the space before he off-loaded to Matthew Neill who finished with an unconverted try to trail 5-7 at the break.

Regent dominated possession, as well as territory, for long periods in the second half.

Team captain, Jonny Harris, set an example for his team when he ran in for a try early in the second period.

Nutt added the extras for a 12-7 lead and then No 8, Alisdair Deering broke clear to run in for an unconverted try.

Foyle then hit some form and took play deep into the Regent territory.

They came away with an McDonnell penalty to reduce the deficit to 17-10.

The pressure was on Regent but they withstood the pressure and, close to the end of the game, sealed their hard earned victory.

Ryan McCarroll was to have the final say when he crossed for a try.

Foyle now face Belfast High School in the quarter-final of the Schools Bowl competition.

The Belfast men lost 19-10 to Royal School Armagh in the last round.

While Limavady Grammar entertain RS Armagh in the third round of the Schools’ Cup. All ties will be played on Saturday February 7.