Lynch happy after victory

The New Zealander felt the Judges Road men were always in control and deservedly defeated Malone, on Saturday.

“Apart from that we looked pretty comfortable and solid with what they threw at us and I was pretty pleased with the defence,” declared Lynch.

“That was probably the most pleasing aspect because it hasn’t been good all year and it was nice to finish pre-Christmas with that type of performance.”

Lynch also felt Adam Bratton’s powerful try, which Richard Peoples converted to give his side a 7-0 lead after just two minutes was the perfect platform for the victory, at the weekend.

“We got off to a good start which was our intention and it was good to get those points because it put the pressure on them,” Lynch explained.

“That means them having to play better rugby and that makes it easier to get into them. This side is in the top third of the table and they have a lot to offer. They are a much better side than last year and a lot better coached.”

Although Derry did cruise to victory, the Kiwi, like any coach believed there are still some things that they will need to be work on prior to the New Year’s Eve visit of Ballymena.

“We were guilty of forcing the ball a little bit, he explained.

“In the first half we kicked too much ball then in the second half we weren’t building phases in the right area of the park which was disappointing.

“But we didn’t pick up any injuries and everyone got a full run out which was good.”

Meanwhile the Judges Road club will be a busy place on Boxing Day with three games down to be played with a 12noon Kick-off. They are City of Derry Under 15’s, 17’s and 19’s all playing Foyle College. These games normally are lively affairs with a competitive edge. There should be no shortage of parents shouting their boys on from the sidelines.

The main game of the afternoon sees the Cityside taking on the Waterside with a 2pm Kick-off. This year all the players in the Club including the 1st XV squad are available and there should be a number of keenly contested battles throughout the pitch. The opposing full backs have both played for the 1st XV over the last two weeks and Simon Logue and Chris Barbour will have the opportunity to show their skill and class which have been so evident all season.

The half back battle brings Ian Vance and Richard Peoples together for the Cityside and Andrew Semple and Richard McCarter oppose for the Waterside this should be some battle to witness. The back row has been strong all season for Derry and with the Waterside will be represented by John Lafferty, Stephen Ferguson and Richard Baird who will be trying to put one over Willie Green, Mark Walker and the experienced Stephen Corr for the Cityside.

The current squads will be strengthened by a number of returning exiles who have all played for the 1st XV for Derry in the past. The Brady boys Phil and Ritchie are both home from Dubai and London respectively unfortunately Philip is unavailable for selection due to injury.

The McFeely boys will also be involved Peter has played No 8 for the Club in the past and Paul had an outstanding game for Trinity at prop when they defeated City of Derry in the AIL at College Park a few weeks ago.

Robin Craig returns from Cardiff and will play in the Cityside back row with Conal Doherty who is at UCD in Dublin joining him in the backs. Graham Murphy who is in Dubai with Phil Brady will play at prop Garvin Peoples will join his brother in the Cityside team.

It should make for an exciting day’s rugby and everyone is invited to come along and enjoy a great day out.