Larne Grammar book spot in Medallion Trophy final

Conditions, as well as nerves, played a factor in the early stages of the game with both sides struggling with their handling.

It was at the scrum that the Larne Grammar pack started to press home their dominance. In particular, Jack Hill, playing at prop, exerted huge pressure on his opposite number.

The first score of the game came midway through the first-half. Quick hands from the backs moved the ball to the wing where Kyle McConnell showed a great turn of pace to beat the opposition winger before he was tackled by covering defenders on the 22. Ethan Campbell, playing at full-back, was immediately in support ensuring that quick ruck ball was secured. It was from this ruck that the ball was moved to the centre where Scott Weatherhead crashed over beneath the posts. The try was converted by Ethan Campbell.

Larne had to wait until the second half to score another.

Again, superb handling from the backs allowed Kyle McConnell to make a break down the left wing. This time he was stopped just short of the line. The Larne Grammar pack quickly secured ball, allowing David Moore to bundle his way over. Campbell struck the conversion beautifully.

Liam Slaughter crashed over for the game’s final try, shrugging off two defenders to go over the line. Campbell again stroked over the conversion.

The win means the Medallion XV now progress to the final of the Medallion Trophy where they will play either Foyle College or Rainey Endowed.

BJ McFaul, captain of the Medallion XV, said: “The boys are over the moon to have made it to the final. It was great to see so many of our family and friends come out to support today.”