With the draw being made for the 1st and 2nd Rounds of the Ulster Schools Cup I decided to take the opportunity to view Carrickfergus, who face Antrim Grammar in Rd. 1, on their trip to Larne Grammar, who face Limavady Grammar in Rd. 2.

The first half was a cagey affair as defences dominated. Carrick’s out half Daniel Curley caught the eye in attack and defence but it was Larne’s forward power that made the difference with Aaron Gallagher battling over the line for the only try of the half. Euan Glenn converted, to add to an earlier penalty, giving Larne a 10 – 0 lead at the break.

It all got a touch spiky in the second half, as befits any clash between Larne and Carrick 😯 , but it did focus both sets of players and the standard of rugby improved. Larne benefited the most as the big guns in their back line came into play more often and the home side scored another four tries without reply.

Stephen Dickey and Jack Lough both crossed for Larne before Taylor McGoran banged in an almost identical brace down the right wing, in a matter of minutes, to put Larne firmly in charge. Glenn converted three, giving Larne a comfortable 36 – 0 win.

GALLERY BELOW