Ophir 1sts showed real spirit and determination on Saturday in their clash with Ballymena 5s. Although the final score read 73–19 to the visitors, Ophir played some of their best attacking rugby of the season and were rewarded with three excellent tries.

Sam Moore got the scoreboard moving with a powerful finish after sustained pressure. Not long after, John Kavanagh crossed the line and calmly added the conversion himself. In the second half, Ollie Browne lit up the game with a brilliant intercept try, reading the play perfectly and sprinting the length of the pitch to touch down.

While Ballymena’s experience and clinical finishing ultimately stretched the scoreline, Ophir never stopped working and continued to test their defence right until the final whistle. There were encouraging signs across the team: sharper handling, strong support lines, and a willingness to keep attacking no matter the circumstances.

The Man of the Match award went to Francis Lagan, whose work rate, leadership, and commitment in both attack and defence stood out throughout the game.

Plenty of positives to take forward as the team builds momentum for the weeks ahead.