In their first home match of the season Ballymena Under 15s enjoyed an emphatic victory over local rivals Randalstown. With the heavy showers relenting the boys took full advantage of the good conditions to produce an excellent display of open running rugby. The 15s got off to a superb start when Randalstown having secured the ball attempted a pass to the winger which was intercepted by the impressive Crooks. Crooks then sprinted clear of the trailing defenders to score under the posts. McNeill made no mistake with the conversion and the 15s were on their way. The first half was a tight affair with Randalstown relying on the power of their larger pack. However Getty and Scott showed strength and determination at the breakdown to ensure Randalstown could not secure quick ball. Some strong play at the breakdown saw Forrester secure the ball and release Kerr. The ball was then moved to the wing where George released winger Stewart. Only a last ditch tackle prevented Ballymena from adding to the score. A missed tackle in mid field however allowed the visitors to take the ball to the Ballymena line and the Randalstown pack crossed for a try.
The 15s were then stung into action and a strong run from Crooks saw the ball moved to full back Mackness who crossed for a try in the corner. The second half saw the Ballymena boys totally dominate proceedings. With the Randalstown pack being no match for the fitness and strength of the Braid boys it was only a matter of time before the possession told. McLeister took the ball into Randalstown territory and Rock smuggled the ball to Bacha who crossed for his first try of the season. Ballymena were now firmly in control with Randalstown pinned back into their half for the remainder of the half. Randalstown had little answer to the questions asked by the Ballymena. With Fyfe making a strong run on the wing the ball was moved to Fullerton. A good run by Millar saw him tackled, however the ever impressive flanker Jennings lifted the loose ball and sprinted down the wing before touching down for an excellent try. The conversion by McNeill now saw the game put well beyond the visitors. Ballymena continued to press through Bell and Miskelly, however some last ditch defence denied a further score. The final whistle brought relief for the visitors and Ballymena ran out as comfortable winners. Final score Ballymena 24 Randalstown 5.
