Malone put in dominant performance against Banbridge

Malone 2nd XV made the perfect start to the new season with a very convincing performance running out winners by 37 - 13.

The game played in dry sunny conditions was always going to suit a young side who were full of running, the backs showed some excellent handling skills and the forwards were on top of their game performing well in the set piece and showing well both at the ruck and maul.

Malone opened the scoring early when after a line out the pack mauled the ball superbly, play was moved left and the ball collected at pace by the inside centre who stormed through a couple of defenders to touch down, the conversion added by Bruce Duff to leave Malone 7-0 ahead.

Malone continued to play attacking rugby and their second score came after a kick to the corner secured a line out which was well collected the pack took complete control drove the ball forward and number 8 was driven over the line Duff missed the touchline conversion. 12-0.

A further penalty try was awarded when Malone secured an excellent line out take and the pack mauled the ball towards the line and the try was awarded when Banbridge deliberately collapsed the maul, Duff added the conversion to extend the lead to 19-0

Malone’s forwards Dominance continued when they scored from a scrum close to the posts the number 8 bagged his second try when he lifted from the base of the scrum and forced his way past the Banbridge blind side to touch down, Duff again added the extras to close the half.

The second half saw Banbridge up their game Malone defended well but the visitors added 2 unconverted tries and a penalty whilst Malone added an unconverted try and two penalties to close out the game with a 37-13 win.