4THS FIND GOING TOUGH AT TABLE TOPPING CARRICK
Carrick 2  43  BANBRIDGE 4THs 5
January 10, 2009

Bann Fourths travelled away to Carrick Seconds last Saturday and with Carrick at the top of the league table the young Bann side knew they had a tough afternoon’s work in front of them.

Unfortunately Bann handed Carrick their first points with some indiscipline five metres out from the Bann line and with a quick penalty Carrick scored a converted try just under the posts.

Bann were playing into a strong wind in the first half and when Bann centre Chris Nelmes went for an early shower after sustaining ligament damage to his left ankle after 10 minutes, the team had an upward battle against the strong Carrick team. Carrick continue to dominate most of the half adding a further four tries. However just before half-time Bann made their first visit into the Carrick “22” and after six phases of forward play John Hook powered over the Carrick line to give Bann their only score of the game and leave them facing a 33-5 deficit.

Carrick kicked off the second half and from the off Bann set about kicking for possession with the wind at their backs. Carrick scored an early try, however the Bann team set about their task again and were encamped in the Carrick “22” for long periods of play throughout the second half. On at least four occasions multiple phases of play only just failed to yield a second try. Carrick scored one further try to bring the final score to 43-5.

This was a tough outing for the Bann side however the whole team gave their all and can take some pride from a resilient second half performance despite playing a man short. This Saturday the squad welcome Portadown Fourths to Rifle Park.