2011-03-19 / / UL :
Dromore 26 - 32 Derry
Derry travelled to Branry Park with the task of taking on a full strength Dromore side in the table topping clash of the Kukri Qualifying league under no illusion this would be a tough ask to get a victory with a bonus point.
However, the Derry team methodically wore down the stout Dromore defence with a very clinical 1st half display. Ryan Campbell scored after 4 minutes when turnover ball was quickly moved to his flank and he fended past the cover to score out wide. The try was unconverted by Mark O’Connor who was to have an indifferent day with the boot. However, O’Connor’s kicking out of hand was superb and a raking 50m penalty clearance saw the Derry lineout set 5m from the Dromore line. Lord of the lineouts – David Houston secured possession and the Derry pack shunted their way over with Sam McAuley adding to his seasons impressive tally.
Derry showed good patience and went through the phases and had the Dromore defence well stretched. David Witherow, McAuley and Sam Duffy spearheaded a dominant scrum and centres Jaryd Bennett and David Funston with front foot ball from the forwards were hard to contain. However it was a strong carry from Steven Corr with David Houston in support that provided the link to impressive kiwi loose forward Karl Gemmel to secured a 3rd try for Derry. Unfortunately, Derry characteristically failed to gain field possession from the kick off and a turnover saw Dromore’s first venture into the Derry 22 of the half produce a seven pointer. Dromore who were totally outplayed turned around at the half still in touch with Derry leading 15-7.
The second half saw territory shared with both teams trading blows between the 22’s but an outstanding offload by flanker Karl Gemmel unlocked the Dromore defence and winger Simon Logue scampered 35m to secure Derry’s fourth try and the all important bonus point.
Dromore struck back almost immediately with some inept defence by Derry’s outside backs, yet again Derry found themselves with a less than a convincing 20-12 scoreline. Derry’s reply was swift and some excellent continuity hard working prop David Witherow was able to pick and go for his first try of the season. A poor clearing kick from Dromore saw player of the match Jaryd Bennett combine with David Funston in a 1st class counter attack try which Mark O’Connor converted to give Derry a 32-12 scoreline.
Unfortunately for Derry they started lose their shape and despite Dromore having a reputation of finishing poorly it was the County Down men who upped the tempo as they chased the game.
Outhalf and Ulster Colleges player James Thompson was a constant threat and with Derry falling off tackles they scored two converted tries in the 70th & 76th minute to come within one score of the exhausted Derry unit. The North West supporters and players alike were relieved when referee Dan Care blew for fulltime.
Coach Bevan Lynch praised his players efforts over the last fortnight which has seen them play an AIL final and four league fixtures. “To play over 400 minutes of rugby in 14 days is a big ask of any team and I am extremely proud of the lads. Credit must go to Dromore today who I thought were the most positive side we have played this year. I am sure their supporters enjoyed their fight back and I again apologise to our own loyal supporters for the close finish but in saying that the dream is still alive.”
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