It was an Ulster derby, at Shawsbridge, on Saturday afternoon, when Instonians took on Ballymena in an AIL2A fixture.

Instonians took the lead, after 4 minutes, when Neil Saulters was on the end of a driving lineout maul for a 5-0 lead.

Play was very even as defences were tested in the next period. On 18 minutes Man of the Match, Robert Whitten, ran clear from his own half, before feeding Bevan Prinsloo to dot down under the posts. Josh Eagleson converted to put Instonians 12-0 up.

Ballymena’ reply was swift. Mark Lamont drove over, after an attacking lineout maul, after 21 minutes. Callum Patterson converted to bring the score back to 7-12. A 26th minute Patterson penalty goal further reduced the deficit to 10-12.

Instonians responded when Prinsloo added his 2nd try, scoring in the right corner to put . . .