Both sides attempted to play open rugby in what was, despite the scoreline, a well contested game. Coleraine benefitted from strong performances by out half Christopher Barbour, centre Josh McCabe and lock Conor Smyth who was a member of last year's Ireland U 18 club squad which played in the U 18 European Championships in France. Smyth's experience showed in his ball carrying as he crossed the gain line every time he received the ball.
Smyth and Barbour each scored a brace of tries for Coleraine, with a fifth try added by hooker Stephen Rourke. Out half Barbour converted two of the tries giving him a personal tally of 14 points.
Ballyclare, whose only score of the match was a penalty, were well served by openside flanker Chris Gawn and scrum half Peter Boyd. They had numerous chances to score but a well organised & hard working Coleraine defence ensured that the Coleraine line remained intact.
The Nutty Krust Man of the Match Award was presented to Coleraine centre Josh McCabe who was outstanding in both attack and defence.
Next Wednesday's (3 March) match sees host club Portadown take on Ballymena in a 7.45p.m. Kick off.
