RUGBY: Coleraine edged out in Nutty Krust decider

The Co Down club edged a keenly contested final with a try by centre James Gibson the difference in the end.

Coleraine dominated the opening exchanges and after a lengthy period of forward dominance lock David Chestnut squeezed in for the opening try.

Out-half Alister Chambers slotted over the touchline conversion for a 7-0 lead.

The strongly rated Dromore side forced their way back into the game and for 15 minutes totally dominated proceedings.

But Coleraine defended vigorously and aided by solid clearance kicks from fullback Niall Irwin kept Dromore at bay.

On 29 minutes though a break from near half-way by the County Down boys saw lock Danny Cummins trundle in from 20 yards to score in the corner.

Out-half Aaron Stewart added the extras from the touchline, and although Coleraine enjoyed another purple patch the scores remained 7-7 at the break.

Coleraine dominated proceedings for most of the second half. However, Dromore restricted them to two penalty attempts.

The first, on 41 minutes, was too wide by Chambers, and a second longer range effort from centre Chris Barber just scraped the right pole four minutes later.

Coleraine continued to search for a way through a tight Dromore defence, but more often ill discipline and minor errors saw possession turned over.

As the game entered the last five minutes, Dromore started to get on top and although Coleraine's defence stood firm a lovely run from centre James Gibson saw him go in under the posts for a try which was converted by Stewart.