Holywood took a massive step towards promotion to Qualifying 2 beating closest rivals Larne 10 – 5 in this Qualifying 3 league match.

Though both sides scored a try a piece Holywood just about deserved their win showing better composure than their hosts during a frantic finale.

The first half was a fairly sedate affair with both teams testing each other out in what should be the league decider. With the wind behind them Holywood went ahead 3 – 0 with an early penalty. Using the conditions through an accurate kicking game and benefiting from a slightly stronger scrum they managed to keep Larne pinned in their own territory for much of the first half.

The game certainly sprang into life in the second with Larne taking the lead straight from kick off. The ball was kicked long forcing Holywood deep into their own 22 and the clearance kick was charged down by Larne’s big winger Jordan Burns who regathered to score in the corner. The conversion was missed from out wide but Larne looked well set to push on with the wind now behind them and the score reading Larne 5 Holywood 3.

The home side came close to extending their lead on a couple of occasions, as the game began to heat up, with Ryan Garrett and Gary Mills both coming close but Holywood managed to hold on with some last gasp tackles.

The visitors eventually managed to work their way up-field and regained the lead with a charge down of their own, which was converted, to give Holywood a 10 – 5 lead with about ten minutes to go.

Larne pushed hard for a second score but Holywood’s composure saw them through in a frantic finish.