6th Feb; Banbridge Academy XV 27-10 Cambridge House XV
Cambridge House’s season came to an unceremonious end, as they were dumped out of the School’s Trophy by Banbridge in challenging conditions on Saturday morning.
Playing with the wind at their back in the first half, Cambridge were able to start the brighter of the two sides, seizing the initiative after a knock on from the kick off, setting up possession in their opponents 22. A last ditch tackle was the only thing that could stop Campbell who broke inside the Banbridge 5 meter line. Cambridge had to settle for chipped penalty from Bovill to give them an early 3-0 lead.
Cambridge were not to be denied a try for long however, as a lovely Speirs offload was kicked through by Campbell and Wilson was able to drop on the ball over the try line.
Banbridge offered little in the first 20 minutes, considering Cambridge were camped in their half and were unfortunate to not extend their lead.
Their inability to extend their lead was punished by Banbridge, as Russell was able to bowl himself over the try line right on half time after an extended spell of pressure.
Banbridge, now oozing with confidence, started the second half with the greater impetus. A rigid tackle from Wilson was the only thing which stopped Banbridge scoring just after half time, knocking the ball from the Banbridge player in the process.
Banbridge were able to get themselves on level terms minutes later with a maul from a lineout on the near touchline which resulted in a try for McIntosh. The hosts took the lead for the first time when Cromie was able to drive himself over soon after for a 17-10 lead.
Cambridge, by this stage decimated by injuries to Moore, Moody and McBride, conceded again as Heaney took advantage of good forward play and bundled himself over to make in 24-10. Thompson chipped over a penalty for Banbridge to conclude the scoring at 27-10.
Although it was a disappointing final result, Cambridge can take heart from the effort they put into this year’s Schools Trophy run. Due to the apparent youthfulness of the side, many of the players will be back next year for another cup run and hopefully a finals appearance.
