Ballymoney 34 v Ards 2nds 3

A much changed Ards 2nds team made journey to Ballymoney for this league encounter. Restricted to a starting team only with no subs, Ards welcomed back Ricky Aston at fly half after several years out of the game, reprising his old half back partnership with Stuart Campbell that was last seen at U19 level. Ballymoney had a full complement and started the game with their usual physical style.
Despite holding the wind advantage in the first period, the scratch feel of the Ards team made stringing phases together hard work. The tempo and physicality set by the home team gave them much of the possession and it was only through resolute defence and some strong individual work that they were restricted to an 8-3 lead at half time, with Ards points coming from a penalty goal from Aston.
The second half rang the changes for the home side and they introduced their bench and the impact was swift and decisive. Shortly after the match resumed, Ards centre Matthew Warnock made a try saving tackle in the corner, but damaged his ankle in the process, having to leave the field and reducing the visitors to 14 men. The Ballymoney subs were large, fast ball carrying forwards and the defensive efforts required to stop them led to shoulder injuries to Matthew Bell and Jack Coulter, who both bravely rejoined the fray after treatment. The home side were now finding gaps out wide as well as running hard through the middle and were accumulating tries with ease. Following an injury full back Adam Coulter in a try saving tackle and with Jack Coulter worsening his shoulder injury in the same exchange, the decision was taken to end the game early.
A tough day at the office for an Ards side not lacking in commitment or attitude, but undone by a Ballymoney side who were worth every point of their victory. Our thanks to our hosts for excellent post match reception and drinks afterwards and to the referee. Final score: Ballymoney 34 v Ards 3