Campbell college welcomed The King’s Hospital School, Dublin, to Fox’s Field on Wednesday 19th December.

The Dubliners were straight into action from their kick off  and looked likely to score until a thumping tackle from Campbell’s James Johnston forced the King’s player to spill the ball.

Campbell’s alert wing Kieron Robertson picked up the loose ball and won the foot race from his own 22 to score under the post and Campbell were 7-0 up after 5 minutes.

Moments later after another ferocious tackle from Campbell’s inside centre, the ball was again dropped and turned over. Quick distribution to the remaining three quarter line saw Campbell’s full back, Conor Rankin run in the first of his two tries although he was unable to add the 2 points.

After gaining good field position the visitors fought back with some trademark Leinster back line loop passing and clever interlinking from players running off the ball, to score a fine try which was comfortably converted.

From the restart King’s went off their feet in a ruck and Rankin added 3 more points for Campbell. Just before the half time whistle Campbell’s hard working pack nicked a line out from King’s and after a smash up the middle from the inside centre the the play was reset, first towards the supporting pack and then immediately in the opposite direction stretching the defensive line too far allowing space for the outside centre, Rex Tinsley to get Campbell’s third try, this time converted.

Half time score 22-7 in Campbell’s favour.

The second half saw Campbell frequently disrupt the Kings’ plays with the forwards fighting for every ball, despite being a man down, a yellow card being given for a dangerous tackle.

The defensive line held and then when in possession they moved through the gears and soon the contest was over with further tries from, Rankin, Gaskin, Megarry and Roulston, all converted by the impressive Rankin.

Benches were emptied as players tired but no further scores came from either team.

Final score: Campbell College 50 – Kings Hospital 7

GALLERY BELOW

Report and pictures – Richard Owens.