Banbridge 1st XV 46–14 Dungannon 1st XV

Dungannon 1st XV were unable to turn their periods of pressure into points as they fell to a 46–14 defeat away to Banbridge.

The opening exchanges were tense and physical, with little to separate the sides as both defences held firm. Banbridge eventually broke the deadlock in the ninth minute, but Dungannon continued to threaten during the opening 20 minutes. Despite creating several promising attacking opportunities, they were unable to breach a well-organised Banbridge defence.

Dungannon’s errors then proved costly as the hosts punished mistakes with clinical finishing, adding four further tries before half-time to take a commanding 29–0 lead into the break.

Dungannon responded positively after the restart and were rewarded in the 52nd minute when Jacob Clarke crossed from five metres. Toby Gribben added the conversion to reduce the deficit to 29–7.

Banbridge’s defence once again stood firm before the hosts countered to add another try. The game then settled into a closely contested period, with both sides struggling to find a way through, before Banbridge eventually broke the deadlock again in the 72nd minute.

Dungannon continued to compete until the final whistle and were rewarded late on when John Carroll crossed from close range. Gribben added the conversion to complete the scoring.

In the end, Banbridge’s ability to capitalise on Dungannon’s errors, coupled with a resolute defensive display, proved decisive as the hosts secured a 46–14 victory.