Forster Cup - 1st XV v Ballymoney 3’s

Following the historic win by the Springboks in Japan, the lead up to the cup match started well, with a good posse of Ophir supporters coming together to show their backing, coming out to a wet pitch side, for which thankfully the rain stayed off.

Following a 1 minute silence, observed prior to kick off, in commemoration of the sad passing of a young life taken too soon, the game started with Ophir receiving the kick, starting from the club house end.

As has now become quite a prominent feature of the side, under the guidance of coach Stuart Hooks, from catching the initial kick-off, the side moved the ball about amongst the forwards, maintaining possession, moving from one side of the pitch to the other, scoring quickly, (with the try scorer taking the lions share of the run to finish, from pretty much half way), being converted by Ronan Sands.

The game then progressed with Ophir swapping the lead pretty much each score with Ballymoney replying, but still showing, through half time, some great flashes of brilliance, unfortunately, not 100% of the time, where some of the cohesion was lacking, and Ballymoney capitalised on the penalties and overturned possession.

It wasn’t until the last 15 minutes that the visiting side seemed to get a better run of calls, and converted this into points that gave them a significant lead. The game NEVER looked like it was ever completely out of reach, and the players, to a man, completely stuck to the task of trying to move into the next round. Unfortunately, time got the better of them, and Ballymoney eventually winning with 29 - 19

Every single player had a good number of not just ‘good’ performances, but (IMHO) flashes of brilliance, regrettably, these weren’t consistent enough, however, the club is really showing a much better depth of play, players and spirit!!

Mentions must go to the try scorers; Paddy McCabe, Neil (Hammer) Gray & William Gossrau

A big thank you, to all the supporters, Liam Reid & Daniel Delargy (for their pitch setting up, water-bottle filling and touch line work), and every single club member, officer that is helping keep the side on the pitch!

Keep it going, try and get to more training sessions, although, again, I have to say, that training numbers have been progressing extremely well!

Kevin J. Bartlett

#UpTheOphs