Victory is sweet revenge for locals

Bann U15s 29

BANN'S U15 side travelled to Chambers Park for their latest league encounter, keen to avenge an earlier defeat to Portadown in a friendly fixture at Rifle Park.

Bann started with some strong running from wing forward Adam Copes and No 8 David McElroy and Bann's mobile pack gradually started to exert some authority in the set plays, providing a solid platform for the backline. Bann took the lead when centre James Waugh broke through the Portadown defence to score, Cameron Cromie adding the conversion.

From the re-start some poor tackling by Portadown allowed Waugh to score his second try under the posts, with Cromie again adding the extras. A third try for the impressive Waugh followed shortly afterwards and it appeared that Bann would canter to an easy victory.

Just before the half-time break, Bann second row Matthew Beck barged over the home line to score from close range, giving his side a 24-0 interval lead.

Bann had to make a number of changes at half-time due to injury and during the early exchanges in the second half the two defences cancelled each other out.

Portadown gradually started to utilize their backline and soon their speedy winger broke through the Bann defence to score under the posts, with the out-half adding the conversion.

After the re-start the resurgent Portadown backline scored two converted tries in quick succession to significantly reduce the deficit and make the final minutes uncomfortable for Bann, but a timely interception by Bann winger James Curry set up Copes to score and secure a deserved victory.

This was a good team effort with notable performances by younger players James Curry, William Wilson, Conor Burns, Zack Chambers and Jake Chambers.