Sun Shines for Brewin Dolphin Youth Cup Finals

The day began with the Under 13 Development Cup, between Ballynahinch and Carrick. Carrick opened up the scoring with a try from Jordan Robinson, and at half time that was the only difference between the two sides.

Carrick's Sam Wallace crossed the 'Hinch line but was unable to ground the ball early in the second half. Ballynahinch were rewarded for their effort with a penalty slotted over by Joseph Bingham. The score was now 3-5 to Carrick.

Ballynahinch seemed like they were getting into their stride, but David Stewart of Carrick changed that with a try convert by Sam Wallace. Score Ballynahinch 3 Carrick 12.

The game continued to ebb and flow. Conor Cambridge from Carrick was unlucky with a chip and chase and the ball crossed the deadball line before he could reach it. Ballynahinch were turning up the pressure and converting this to points with a try and conversion by Joseph Bingham. The score was now Ballynahinch 10 Carrick 12. Ballynahinch continued to attack while Carrick continued to defend and this is how the Brewin Dolphin Ulster U13 Cup Final ended.

Emily Waterworth from Brewin Dolphin presented the teams with their medals and Ulster Branch President, Cecil Watson presented the Under 13 Cup.

Under 15 final: Malone 15-7 Banbridge

The small shower of rain did not dampen the spirit at Ravenhill as the Under 15 Cup final got under way. The RB Fleming Under 15 Cup was to be contested between Malone and Banbridge. Several boys from both teams met last year at Ravenhill in the U14 Cup Final and a year on, the two sides faced each other once again. They had also met each other in this year's league as well.

It was Malone who scored first with a 'cheeky' little cross chip by Ben Rodgers for Tom Murphy to run in and score. Banbridge took the lead with a try and conversion by Macauley Little. It was still a tight game but Malone came in with a Gregory Wilson try to take back the lead. This was then followed up by a Thomas Smyth try.

Whilst both teams battled until the final whistle, the final score remained at Malone 15 Banbridge 7. The cups and medals were presented by Mr Neil Jackson.

Under 17 Final: Malone 12-18 Portadown

The support acts had so far produced some entertaining rugby so the Under 17s now had to ensure that they too good produced the goods. The Under 17 final saw Malone face Portadown to compete for the CE Bowman Cup.

Malone had the first opportunity with a penalty but missed, then on the five minute mark, Portadown were awarded a penalty which was neatly kicked by Robert Thompson. Portadown took control of the game and dominated the first half with tries from Matthew Beale and Luke Mongomery and a conversion by Robert Thompson. The Portadown boys now led 15- nil at half time.

The second half began with Malone chasing the game. However, they were unlucky when Luke Creighton chased a kick that bounced, but as he sprinted for the line, Portdown's defense caught him and stole the ball. It looked like the luck was changing though when Jack McMurty gathered a charged down ball, and raced over for a try. This was converted by Robert Williamson.

Malone continued to dominate the second half, and a try by Malone Captain Mark Dowds closed the gap to just 3 points (12-15). In the dying moments of the game, Portadown's Robert Thompson kicked a penalty to leave the final score Malone 12-18 Portadown. The cup and medals were presented by Sir Nigel Hamilton.

Thanks to everyone who helped to make the Youth Cup finals a success on the day and indeed to the Youth Committee for their hard work throughout the season. Finally, thank-you to Brewin Dolphin who continue to support youth rugby in the province- their help is very much appreciated.