RUGBY: Banbridge must oust holders Ballynahinch to make Senior Cup final

The Rifle Park club have home advantage against their Co Down rivals who have lifted the trophy on the last two occasions and are bidding for a fourth consecutive final, Bann coach Dan Soper knows it is going to be tough test.”

“It’s a timely distraction from the All Ireland League, it’s a big challenge, Hinch with all their success in the cup and tough opposition, we’ll give it a go,” said Soper.

Banbridge’s only final came in 2011 when they lost 17-12 to Ballymena.

“A cup competition is a different mind set you’re not worried about bonus points you are just trying to go out and win. it’s knockout rugby and at the end of it is a good carrot of getting to go and play at the Kingspan which we don’t get often.

“To get there would be great for the guys because not many of them have played there but to do it we have got to beat Hinch which we haven’t done for a few years.”

With Armagh’s expulsion Dungannon travel to Belfast Harlequins in the other semi final.