Randalstown Second XV lose out in midweek thriller

Randalstown started well and dominated the early exchanges but after a succession of penalties the home side were able to breach their defence and put the first points on the board after 15 minutes.

It was close to half time before the visitors were able to reduce the deficit with a Murray penalty to turn around 5-3 down.

Early in the second half Lisburn struck again to increase their lead. ‘Town looked lively from the restart however and and interception from Murray almost saw him over the line. The ball was well retained by ‘Town and Conor Ferry ran a great supporting line to take the ball and charge over for a well deserved try converted by Murray.

Lisburn’s next score came when they opted to go for touch with a penalty, and from the resulting lineout their powerful pack were able to rumble over.

When ‘Town surprisingly opted for a scrum from a penalty on their own 22 it seemed they read the situation well. The momentum had shifted in the pack and they got good possession allowing Crawford to sprint up the middle. Although they were stopped short the ball was recycled well and Hyndman found the gap to run in under the posts.

This Saturday the Firsts host Lisburn while the 2nds travel to City of Derry in the Crawford Cup quarter final.