Randalstown lose on return to competitive match action

Randalstown 1st XV retuned to competitive rugby after a number of weeks without a game on a Saturday as they lost 15-8 to Malone Seconds in the Conference League.
A Ranadalstown Thirds player pops a pass to a team-mate during the wekend game against UUC.A Ranadalstown Thirds player pops a pass to a team-mate during the wekend game against UUC.
A Ranadalstown Thirds player pops a pass to a team-mate during the wekend game against UUC.

With events in Paris overshadowing the sporting calendar, the game was preceded by a minutes silence in memory of those victims of the Paris attacks.

Malone had the best of the early exchanges and their big pack were making life difficult for the visitors. After 15 minutes a strong forward drive from Malone resulted in a try which gave the home side a deserved lead 5-0 lead,

As the game progressed the Randalstown team began to put pressure on the home sides line and were rewarded with a penalty which Daniel McGlade slotted over. However on the stroke of half time Malone increased their lead with a penalty to make the score 8-3 at half time. The second half was a played in gathering gloom and credit to both sides for their efforts. Randalstown’s superior fitness began to tell in the scrums, but Malone managed to increase their lead with a converted try in the 70 minute.

Despite the difficult conditions Randalstown hit back late in the game when after a superb cross field kick by Daniel McGlade his brother Niall was able to gather and race over for a try which made the final score 15-8 in favour of Malone.

Despite the result the coaches Longwell and Strange will be pleased with the performance and the opportunity to get in some much needed game time before next week’s league encounter against a tough Grosvenor side. Good performances from a number of players new to this level of rugby should be noted especially Adam Watt and Scott Mowbray,

The 3rds were in action at home against UUCs and recorded a convincing 42-0 victory.

Next Saturday the 1sts play Grosvenor in the league, the seconds are back in action as they travel to Donegal and the 3rds have Banbridge 4ths at home. It will be a busy Saturday in Randalstown and the games are preceded by lunch in the clubhouse. To check availability and reserve a space, contact Adie Johnston.

Related topics: