Friendly: Ulster U18 Clubs 40 Eagle Impact Rugby Academy U17 7

On Friday afternoon, the first match of the season took place at Newforge Country Club, between Ulster U18 Clubs and EIRA U17 (Eagle Impact Rugby Academy) from the USA. The game was played over 3 x 25 minute periods to allow coaches to use their entire enlarged squads and give all members game time.

EIRA pressed from kick off and Ulster were forced to defend waves of attacks. Eventually Ulster broke out and after a series of links between forwards and backs, Jacob Lennox scored an unconverted try, in the left corner for a 5 – 0 lead on 14 minutes.

Ulster now enjoyed possession and 5 minutes later Cameron Cummings went over midway out, for Frank Davis to convert for a 12 – 0 lead.

In the second period Ulster consolidated their lead. A sweeping move saw Ben Neely cross, after 42 minutes, converted by Davis, and from a short penalty move on 50 minutes, Alexandre Ferreira drove over, under the posts. Davis added the extras to give Ulster a 26 – 0 lead after 2 periods.

In the 3^rd period, EIRA enjoyed more possession, and it was no surprise, after fast recycled ball, when Lucas Meranda was put over.  Euan Latimer converted to reduce the deficit to 26 – 7.

Ulster again pressed. From a series of close in forward drives, Ethan Canavan squeezed over after 66 minutes. JF Burns converted from wideout to move Ulster up to 33 – 7.

Forward pressure, again told, and Callum Bradley dove over, close to the posts, on 75 minutes. Burns converted, with the last kick of the game to give Ulster a 40 – 7 victory.

In this first start of the season, handing let both sides down, knock ons and the concession of soft penalties, marred an otherwise entertaining game.

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