Banbridge Rugby Club - Northern Ireland

Starting and finishing with three back row players in the backline did not prevent Bann playing an expansive game which stretched the Ballynahinch defence to the limit and was unlucky not to yield more tries.

The first try did in fact come from a converted back row, Peter Cromie, who finished off several phases of Bann play with a strong run from 20metres out. Ballynahinch, with the wind at their backs, found their only answer to the strong Banbridge defence was to kick for position, but with the Bann lineout jumping superb the ball was carried straight back at them.

‘Hinch continued to put the ball in Bann's half and eventually won a penalty 10m out which they opted to run. The Bann team reacted slowly and paid the price, letting ‘Hinch cross their line too easily. This left the half time score at 7-5 in the home side's favour.

Bann now had the wind advantage but still ran the ball at every opportunity, off-loading well and generating good momentum. It was at this point that they suffered a blow when captain Jonny McCreery had to leave the field with a knee injury. Bann had travelled with only 15 players and so were forced to carry on with only 14 men.

This did not deter them from playing attacking rugby and for 15 minutes they played the game largely in ‘Hinch's half. Bann's most effective runner, Richard Graham, who continually broke the Ballynahinch defensive line, was eventually rewarded with a fine try. He shrugged off several tackles and raced 25 metres to score. McCreery returned to the game still carrying his injury and Bann turned up the pressure. This told when man of the match Graham ran through the ‘Hinch defence for his second, and the final score of the game.

This was a great opener for the U17s who showed skill and commitment against a team who were able to field eight replacements. Bann's fitness proved itself even when down to 14 men and their team spirit kept them going. Every player on the U17s gave 100%, and when the full squad is available they need fear no one.

It was hard to pick a man of the match with 15 guys performing so well, but Richard Graham who was playing his first game at full back tortured ‘Hinch with his powerful runs and so gets the vote this week.