City of Derry arrived with a strong pack of forwards which suited the playing conditions at Hamilton Park. Ards failed to secure the kick off in the difficult conditions and the visitors robust forwards quickly got their game plan working scoring 4 tries before Ards could settle into any shape with a unfamiliar squad.

It was a very poor first 20 minutes by Ards with too many tackles being missed and the City of Derry ball carriers getting over the gain line with ease.

Ards began to build the phases and a good drive by prop Paul Greggan set up play in the visitor's half. Centre Alan Crawford shown his quality going past 3 defenders to score a fine try, outhalf Ricky Aston landed the difficult conversion into the wind.

Halftime: Ards 7 v City of Derry 26

It was a much improved performance from Ards in the second half superb work rate shown by Jack Coulter and Adam McKee and the character of the team shone through; the defence was only breached in the last play of the match.

The game did gave opportunities for Sam McVeigh,Mark Aiken, and Ben Laird at this level. There was also the welcome return from injury of back row Ryan Mills and the excellent form of Alan Crawford.

A Peden, S.McVeigh, P.Greggan, A.Rigby, A.McKee, B.Laird, J.Coulter, N.Young, A.Wright, R.Aston, M.Aiken, S.Robinson, A.Crawford, R.Mills, J.Adams

Ards Rugby Club

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