Antrim 58 – 0 Civil Service
by David Thompson
It was a match in which Antrim dominated from start to finish in the bright sunny conditions on the Saturday afternoon.
Antrim fielded a good mix of youth an experience and were able to rotate comfortably as coach Richard Smyth started in centre with Andrew Calvert partnering him in his first game back after a few years absence.
It took 8 minutes for Antrim to get on the scoresheet as Andrew Chestnutt crashed over for Antrim’s first try and this was followed up on 15 minutes with a great effort from Jack Dempster down the wing with Antrim taking a 10-0 lead as Neil Manson failed to convert both conversions.
The game took a twist as the rejuvenated coach, Richard Smyth had to leave the pitch with a brutal cut which required 5 stitches and 6 staples. However his replacement David McKee had an instant impact as he bulldozed his way from the half way line in a great solo effort allowing Neil Manson to convert as Antrim lead 17-0.
More tries followed as John Bull and Dave McKee crashed over to take the score to 27-0 despite 2 missed conversions from Neil Manson.
As Antrim continued wave after wave of attack, Service evidently struggled and Vice-Captain Gary Walker darted through to score, followed by a great effort with a pick and drive from Captain Mark Perry with Antrim now leading 41-0 after 2 simple conversions for David McKee.
With the finishing line in sight, an inspired and evidently fit Antrim team saw 3 more tries coming from John Bull, William Smith and Gary Walker and only one conversion from David McKee as Antrim ended a predominantly one-sided affair with a 58-0 scoreline.
Match photos available on www.facebook.com/antrimrfc
