‘Hinch win in Towns Cup shock

‘Hinch win in Towns Cup shock

10 January 2024

BALLYNAHINCH seconds downed junior kingpins Ballyclare with a superb display to move into the quarter-finals of the Towns Cup — a competition which holds a place of real significance in the history of the ‘Hinch club.

Davy Harris was able to field a strong side with Josh Hanlon in the front row and Declan Horrox showing his versatility by slotting into the back row alongside Stephen Campbell and the ever-reliable Jonto Andrews.

The calm, crisp conditions suited a rapid back line, including the dangerous Arthur Johnston at scrum-half and evergreen Aaron Cairns on the wing.

Securing sufficient possession to service the backs was always going to be the key factor in the game and Ballynahinch were given an early boost with a Ballyclare yellow card allowing them to exploit the extra man and take the lead through a Matthew Booth try.

Ballyclare hit back with a penalty and then a try following a period of persistent pressure in the ‘Hinch 22.

Paul Kerr evened the scores on the brink of half time with a well-struck penalty and it was clear that the opening score in the second half would be crucial to the outcome of the game.

The pace of Shay Storey ensured that the home side took a lead they would not surrender when he chased down a well-placed kick to score.

Johnston’s electric break and offload to Kerr took them two scores clear, but Ballyclare showed all their resilience to fight back with a score following a multi phase possession and as the game reached its climax they looked increasingly likely to pinch a draw.

However, quick hands sent Cairns clear and he raced in for the clinching score on the final whistle to seal a famous win.

This was only a second defeat of the season for Ballyclare as they have moved into the All-Ireland Junior Cup Final and are second in the league.

Harris will hope to have similar resources at his disposal at Barban Hill against local rivals Dromore in the quarter-final.