Armagh under 17s made a welcome return to competitive rugby with a hard fought win over neighbours Portadown 16 12.
In almost perfect conditions Portadown kicked off after Armagh’s captain won the toss and played with the slope. Both teams tried to play
expansive rugby but the lack of recent game time showed and there were considerable knock-ons from both sides. Armagh were certainly
on the upper foot and with a bit more composure in their final pass could have had early scores. They could break down the Portadown defence
and all they had to show for their dominance were 2 well struck penalties from Cillian Harney. So with all their pressure and territory advantage
the teams turned round at half-time with Armagh only leading 6-0.
Armagh started the second half in much the same vein and a fantastic break from Ruairi Quinn lead to a great opportunist try for Cillian to again slot over the kick. 13-0 to Armagh. Portadown came back strongly and scored a well worked try which was converted to narrow the margin. Tempers as to be expected in derby games between Armagh and Portadown
began to fray and it needed a stern lecture from the referee to calm things down. Portadown continued to press and scored another try which left the game very finely balanced.
Just when it looked that Portadown may snatch a win they infringed at a ruck and Cillian again struck a fine penalty for Armagh to win by 4 points.
This was a fine win by Armagh who are improving all the time and with a bit of extra fitness at training they could get a good run in the cup. They have to play Banbridge and Newry in the next couple of weeks and it will be interesting to see how they get on . There are some talented players in this team and if they could control their enthusiasm they may land a surprise or two.
