Historic day for Randalstown at Ravenhill

Saturday was an historic day for Randalstown RFC with their 1st XV taking to the pitch in Ravenhill for the first time to take on Ards in the Junior Shield Final.

The support marked the occasion, with a huge crowd of supporters making the journey up to Belfast to make the Affidea feel like home.

This was Ards’ second run at the Junior Shield, having narrowly lost out to Carrick the year before.

The first half was a closely fought one. Randalstown got points on the board with a penalty try and Eoin Letters try, but Ards had a narrow 17-12 lead.

In the second half, Ards speedy backs took advantage of the wide pitch at Ravenhill to score another two tries. A try from Daniel Cullen kept the scoreboard ticking over for Randalstown, but the gap between the scores remained. Final score 37-17 to Ards.

While the result may not have gone in Randalstown’s way, there is still a lot for the side to be proud of.

President Aine Doran said: “It will always be a day to remember for coaches David and Ivan Smith and their players, and a day out at Ravenhill well earned after all they have given to the club.

“The occasion of getting to Ravenhill was still well celebrated back in the clubhouse after the game. And most importantly of all, players Scott Stevenson and Dean McCrory both finished the match in one piece and with no black eyes ahead of their respective weddings this week!

There was even a word of appreciation from Ards RFC, who said: “Thank you for a hard-fought, competitive and committed game of rugby in the Junior Shield Final.

“Matches like this are why we love this sport - physical, intense, and played in the right spirit from first whistle to last. Best wishes for the remainder of your season.

“We also extend our thanks to the referee and his assistants for their work throughout the match. The game doesn’t happen without USRFR - Rugby Refereeing Ulster officials giving their time, experience and effort, and we’re grateful for their contribution to what was a great occasion for both clubs.

“Respect to all involved - players, coaches, officials and supporters. Rugby is better when we stand together.”

The Junior Shield Final Squad and their sponsors were: Jack Francis (Randalstown Pharmacy), Eoin McDonald (Danaan’s Barbers), Rab Mawhinney (Milwater Grooming Co), Dean McCrory (Milwater Grooming Co), Jack McCarroll (Wishart Group), Gary Hume, Craig Houston (Foster Forklifts), Ryan O’Dea (McIlhatton PVC Windows & Doors), Sam McNiece , Oran Gilbert (NPG Motors), Neil Graham (JMM Fire & Security), Mark Adamson, Cormac Devlin (NPG Motors), Paul McCloskey (Fire Stop & Seal), Eoin Letters (Captain) (McCartney Tiles), Scott Stevenson, Conor Murray, Daniel Cullen, Michael Smith, Callum English (J.Doyle Plastering).

Coaches and Support Staff: David Smith, Ivan Smith, Aaron Murray, Peter Cullen, Conor Ferry.

See pictures on Pages 38 and 39, and last week’s match against Ballymoney on Page 31, by Dave Pettard.