On Thursday afternoon, in a local derby, Lurgan College U16 met Markethill High School U16 in the final of the Taylor Cup, at Havelock Park, Banbridge. The drizzle, at push back, became fine rain, then light rain and finally heavy rain by fulltime, making it a thoroughly miserable afternoon for all concerned.

Markethill settled immediately, trapping Lurgan in their own half, only allowing occasional excursions into the Markethill half. Despite control, Markethill couldn’t break down a stubborn Lurgan defence, marshalled by keeper, Charlie Gault. It was scoreless at the end of the 1st quarter.

In the 2nd quarter Markethill continued to press, forcing Lurgan back. Markethill captain Sam Mills missed a 22nd minute penalty stroke and had a 25th minute penalty stroke saved by Gault . . .