Armagh ease into Ulster League Final

SATURDAY saw Armagh at home to Malone needing a bonus point win in their third game of the Ulster League to secure a place in the final.

Despite the sweltering heat, Josh McKinley’s side produced a comfortable win against the Belfast side on their home turf.

The first half was dominated by Armagh with Jack Treanor scoring within the opening five minutes of the game. A break on the edge from Nigel Simpson which Armagh took advantage of, led to the opening score of the game 5-0.

Next to score for Armagh was Dylan Nelson after some slick hands on the edge led to him crossing the line, this was converted by Sam Cunningham to make the score 12-0 after 25 minutes.

Two minutes later Ross Taylor scored after a well-placed kick through the Malone defence, which was chased down and touched down by Ross, conversion was again kicked by Cunningham 19-0.

David Agnew scored the final try of the half after some lovely transition play which opened the space for the winger to cross the line. The try was converted by Cunningham to make the score 26-0.

HT 26-0

With an already healthy lead over the visitors, Andrew Willis added to it after the team made a line break in the middle of the park, which was finished off by the winger, try converted by Cunningham 33-0.

Two minutes later Neil Faloon scored after a chip and chase from himself showing off his skills. Cunningham converted again making it 40-0.

Malone then fought back, scoring two tries in quick succession with the first one being converted, finally putting some points on the board, 40-12 after 60 minutes.

Evan Crummie scored the final try for Armagh and the game after some good rugby from the home team’s backline which was finished off by the centre, leaving the score 45-12. This game was a showcase of Armagh’s capability and was very entertaining to watch.

FT City of Armagh 1XV 45-12 Malone RFC 1XV

The Armagh Brewing Company player of the match was awarded to Nigel Simpson after a solid all-round performance from the flanker.

Due to the bonus point win, this week Armagh will travel to Ballymacarn Park to face Ballynahinch in the League Final, with a 2:30 kick off. All support welcome.