Friends Medallion entertained Belfast High School at Lisburn last Saturday in what was to provide very entertaining and skillful game.
The first half started with both sides being playing enterprising rugby but Friends were first to score through thier star of the day Rian ,McGoldrick on the 10 min mark, converted by James Maxwell 7 – 0.
However BHS were not to be outdone and on the 16th min mark scored a well worked converted try 7 – 7
Friends pack dominated the collision area of the game as well as set piece, this provided a good platform for their lively backs, but it was BHS who were to step up and score out wide on 28 mins, the conversion was missed 7 – 12.
On the last play of the half a counter attack by McGoldrick saw him score his second try of the match, conversion pulled wide of the posts and the halftime whistle went at 12 -12.
After a good halftime talk by Friends coaching team their game started well but they lost concentration in the early stages letting BHS in for a converted try 3 mins into the half 12 – 19.
This is what was need to push this side on, it was the first game of the season they had all players available to them and they want to show how they could play and it was only a further 3 mins later that Schools Development player Ryan Hall crossed the line, converted by Maxwell, 19 – 19. This was followed up on the 14 min mark by an unconverted try by Schools Development player Kirk McGrady who was playing in a new position for him at first centre 24 – 19.
BHS fought back but Friends were on a roll and a lovely cross field kick by Friends out half, Reece Scott was chased up by winger Callum Taylor who used his footballing skills to control the ball and dive on the ball over High School’s line, converted by Maxwell 31 – 19.
The final say was to be to McGoldrick who ran in the final try again converted by Maxwell to make the final score 38 – 19.
A good performance from this side who have suffered from injuries all season, this being their first game with their full squad.
Team
1.Stephen Gibson
2. James Maxwell
3.Peter Esler
4. Daniel Magennis
5. Tom De Selleur
6. Ben Glass
7. Bart Campbell
8. Gareth Hill
9. Ally McCord
10. Reece Scott
11.Cameron O’Hare
12. Kirk McGrady
13 Ryan Hall
14 Callum Taylor
15. Rian McGoldrick
16. William McCoy
17 Bailey McClure
18 Luke Gibbons
