The Front Row Union Sport - McCullough Cup: Banbridge Academy 1 Royal Belfast Academical Institution 3 Final

McCullough Cup: Banbridge Academy 1 Royal Belfast Academical Institution 3 Final

Dec 4, 2025

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On Wednesday afternoon Banbridge Academy faced Royal Belfast Academical Institution in the McCullough Cup Final at Havelock Park.

Both sides set out their stall early playing fast, skilful attacking hockey. Inst struck first. Josh Gill converted a 7^th minute penalty corner for a 1-0 lead, which they retained at the end of the 1^st quarter.

Max Murphy, right, equalised for Banbridge

Most of the 2^nd quarter was Banbridge’s. On 26 minutes Banbridge equalised when Max Murphy turned in a cross for 1-1.

As it seemed to be heading into halftime a draw Inst were awarded a penalty stroke, which was converted by captain, Matthew McAreavey. Inst led 2-1 at halftime.

Again, Banbridge had the better of the 3^rd quarter but couldn’t convert chances, as the quarter remained scoreless.

Both sides threw the kitchen sink at each other in the 4^th quarter. The game was settled in the closing minute when Josh Gill turned in a cross at the back post to seal the game.