THE inaugural rugby match between the town’s two grammar schools proved to be a resounding success.
Lurgan College emerged victorious from the encounter with St Michael’s, though the Catholic grammar school have a lot to be proud of.
In a very open encounter, played at the home of Lurgan Rugby, St Michael’s didn’t disgrace themselves, crossing the line for three tries in reply to the seven scores from the College, who are unbeaten at Medallion level this season. CLICK HERE for 400+ Action Shots from Rab Irwin
St Michael’s had only started training for this game in September with the vast majority of their team having no rugby experience.
Coached by Director of Lurgan RFCC and Youth Development Officer, Graeme Hunter, the St Michael’s boys showed an unbelievable level of appreciation of the sport and at times had the well-drilled College outfit on the back foot.
Here is an interview with Graeme
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Two of the St Michael’s team – Niall Greene and Mark McCafferty – play for Lurgan Under 17s and both scored tries at the rugby ground they call home.
But the biggest cheer of the day went up for St Michael’s full back Daire Haughey, playing his first competitive rugby match, who touched down for a try at the end of the first half.
After the game Daire told the ‘MAIL’: “It was a brilliant game and brilliant to get our first try.
“I’d definitely like to do it again. It would encourage me to come up here and play for Lurgan.”
Fellow try scorer Niall Greene added: “There’s a lot more contact in rugby than in gaelic. You get to know your team very well.”
Niall’s team mate at St Michael’s and Lurgan U17s, Mark McCafferty, commented: “A lot of the skills are transferable between rugby and gaelic. I really enjoy both sports. Graeme has been a great coach. He makes everything very simple.”
Graeme, son of former British Lion Ray Hunter, said: “It’s hard to believe these boys have only been playing rugby since September. It was a great game. The boys from St Michael’s can hold their heads high. They should be really proud of themselves. With the talent Lurgan College have to score three tries was an excellent achievement.”
Lurgan College Coach Brian Hanna said: “It was great to be involved in this match. St Michael’s have some very promising players.
“This current group we have at Lurgan College are the best I think I’ve ever worked with. It’s credit to the mini rugby system at Lurgan that we’ve inherited a collection of great rugby players who already gel as a team.”
Below are TV clips of moments in the game including a try or two!
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