Dromore defeated Instonians 16-5 on the opening weekend of the Kukri Ulster Rugby Championship Division 1.

Instonians signalled their intent from the off and controlled the majority of possession in the first half.

Matthew Kilpatrick went close to scoring but a forward pass saw the play pulled back while Michael Melville was held up over the line.

It took almost 30 minutes before Dromore gained meaningful possession in the Instonians half but, unlike their opposition, came away with a Lee Steenson penalty.

With the momentum behind them, the home side crossed at the end of the half for a Stuart Russell try. Stevenson converted to give Dromore a 10-0 lead at the break.

Another Steenson penalty at the start of the second half to make it a 13 point gap.

More pressure from Instonians resulting in Aaron Stewart being sent to the bin. Nevertheless Instonians couldn’t find the decisive pass and Dromore survived thanks to great defence.

Steenson added a third penalty. After more dogged Dromore defence, Paddy Bell crossed in the corner for his side’s first score.

Dromore held on to for the 11-point win.

Match photos below by Beth Cregan.

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