Home sweet home for Lynch’s side

Instonians gained only their second win in the AIL last weekend against Bective Rangers and moved one place above the Judges Road men who dropped to 14th.

Despite suffering five defeats out of seven in the Ulster Bank AIL 2A Lynch believes home advantage is crucial this weekend.

“I am looking forward to getting back to our home venue because the Instonians game is going to be a tough encounter,” explained the New Zealander.

“They will be buoyed by their win against Bective Rangers and will come to Judges Road in a positive frame of mind. If we play the rugby we are capable of then we can achieve a winning result.”

Derry lost away to second placed Dublin University last weekend by 32-21, with only two wins in the AIL, Derry’s chances of a top four finished seem to have disappeared.

“It’s a tough league. We have scored a lot of tries but the lack of bonus points have cost us moving up the table. We must improve discipline. We play with a bit of naivety at times and don’t play enough rugby in the right zones.”

The head coach had aspirations for a top four finish at the start of the campaign and still harbour hopes of clinching a top four spot.

“With only three games at home after the visit of Instonians it’s crucial we pick up the points on offer. Last season Ballymena lost six games out of 15 and still finished third.

“It’s mentally frustrating because when we play the right option we can open anyone up. At times our performances in a game have been excellent. If we keep our concentration we always have a chance.

“If we cut out the silly mistakes then we can give our supporters an early Christmas present of a win before the league break.”

The Kiwi is thrilled to welcome back Centre Chris Barber returns to the home side’s squad this weekend after a three week lay-off.

“Chris is available for selection again, so he comes back into the squad and that’s great to have him back involved,” concluded Lynch.