‘Hinch miss out on semi-final

‘Hinch miss out on semi-final

2 April 2025

BALLYNAHINCH will be playing for nothing but bragging rights in the local derby at Armagh on Saturday after their chances of a Division 1A semi-final were extinguished by champions Cork Constitution at a windswept Ballymacarn Park.

Playing in their traditional colours as part of the wider celebrations of the 70th anniversary of rugby at Ballynahinch, the home side put up an excellent fight into the wind in the first half with a Ruairi Meharg try in reply to the opening score from the visitors.

The game was largely decided either side of half time. Trailing by just two points, Ballynahinch were forced back on to their own goal line which they defended ferociously only to concede a try on the half time whistle.

Seasoned local observers were of the opinion that the wind was worth at least ten points and that all was still to play for as the teams turned around.

Ballynahinch duly camped in the Cork Con 22 early in the first half but failed to take their chances, even as their opponents lost a player to the sin bin.

As the half progressed the vast experience of the serial contenders was on display as they managed the conditions perfectly, increasing their lead around the hour mark with another try and eventually wrapping up a bonus point on the final whistle with a fourth try.

Adam Craig will be disappointed that his side failed to fire a shot after their fine spell early in the second half and must lift the side to face an Armagh side with everything to play for as they seek to avoid getting dragged into the relegation places.

Ballynahinch (1-21): Callum Smyth, Claytan Milligan, Tom McCallister, Declan Horrox, Bradley Luney (Capt), Reuben Crothers, Peter Heasley, Marcus Rea, Conor McKee, Paul Kerr, Ethan Graham, Matthew Booth, George Pringle, Ruairi Meharg, Conor Rankin, Kelvin Hamilton, Harry McCormick, Ronan McCusker, Will Hopes, Zack McCall, Chris Gibson.

Ballynahinch 5

Cork Constitution 28

AIL DIVISION 1