BANN P5s RUNNER UP AGAIN

Bann P5s at Lisburn

Banbridge P5 mini rugby team again showed great character and consistency to get to their second tournament final this season.

The group stage of the tournament pitted them against some familiar faces. Bann won their first match against local rivals Dromore, comfortably winning 6 tries to 1. In their second group game, Bann lost 2-0 to Lisburn, meaning that qualification from the group would come down to their last match against a Malone side that had impressed in their previous group matches. Bann played very well, eventually winning 3-0, and progressing into the semi-finals as group runners- up and with confidence high.

Cooke, who qualified as winners of the other group, were their next opponents. Banbridge scored twice to lead in the tie, but the loss of influential captain Mark McCullough was followed by an immediate Cooke try, and the young Bann players were forced to work hard and hold onto win.

The final pitted Bann against tournament hosts and Banbridge's group winners, Lisburn for a second time.

Lisburn scored quickly to take the lead, but the Banbridge players did not let their heads drop. Patrick McNiff pounced on a Lisburn mistake gathering a loose ball to run half the pitch and score and level the tie. Lisburn, however, proved again to be too strong for Banbridge and they eventually ran out 4-1 winners in the final.

The Banbridge players took consolation in their excellent run in the tournament and the award of their silver medals, and the club, coaches, parents and supporters are extremely proud of their efforts.

Thanks to the players, parents, supporters and Lisburn RFC for a superbly run tournament.

Thanks to John Mullan for match notes and photo.