Lurgan demolish Derry in Pollock Park rout

With the end score Lurgan 36-0 Derry, it was a game worth watching, dynamic and full of unanticipated moments.

The mighty twos dominated in every aspect of the rugby game; in strength, aggression, physicality and endurance.

However, Derry did not step back, they kept their heads up pushing forward. Yet, their spirit was broken as Lurgan dictated the terms of the game.

From the first minute, Lurgan fronted the opposition with some huge tackles. Their defensive line was truly unbroken, but it was Lurgan’s offence that overwhelmed the other team.

With every phase Lurgan forwards broke Derry’s line, creating space for the springbok like backs to finish off at every time. Ben McIlwaine at fly half did a great job in organising the moves.

Also, after a long recovery, Andy Stevenson at scrum half finally reappeared on the Pollock Park pitch making spectacular runs.

Lurgan controlled the game throughout both halves, although they seemed to have ‘hit the wall’ in the second half as Derry made a small recovery, but the aggressive rocking and scrummaging from Lurgan’s forwards proved to be too much for Derry.

Special contributions came from Paddy McVeigh, Jason Kane and Keith McBride, with their massive breaks through enemy’s line.

Ben McIlwaine was the top try scorer, gaining initial points in the first ten minutes of the game, and another try in the last ten minutes.

Johnny Clarke scored the second try, soon after followed by additional points from the captain, Jason Kane.

Andy Stevenson too, despite this being his first game in months, scored afine try.

Michael Campbell scored the most impressive try of the lot, making a 30 metre run all by himself before setting the ball coolly under the posts.

At the end of the day, Lurgan’s victory reflects their hard work and dedication to the club.

Under the coaching directives of Bruce Cornelius all the players will be pushing even harder in preparations for Saturday’s match against Larne, kick-off is 2.30pm and all support is welcome.