Larne started brightly with some early phases, however, like Carrick last week found themselves 19 points down in as many minutes through a combination of poor decision making and slack defence. The first Instonians try came from a strong surge up the middle and ended with a flowing back move to score in the left hand corner. The second was a similar movement ending in a score in the right hand corner. The third try was unfortunate for Larne, an aimless kick head being dotted down just short of the dead ball area.

With a mountain to climb, Larne set about Instonians with gusto, with strong carries from Johnston, Hyndman, and Burford and some great turnovers won by Mcallister, Campbell and Dickey. Campbell covered the pitch like a gazelle hunting its prey. Eddie Hunter proved a continuous thorn in the side for Instonians with countless carries and line breaks leading Larne into the 22 on more than one occasion. This culminated in a try for Andrew Hyndman to the left of the posts which was converted by Calum McKay.

Half time: Larne 7 - 19 Instonians

The second half saw Larne’s momentum continue with strong carries by the forwards, and incisions by the back with Jack Withers leading the charge. By this point, Instonians simply could not cope with the physicality brought by Larne and a penalty kick to the corner resulted in a maul and a try by Luke Burford. Game on.

To their credit Instonians responded with a break away try which was converted, leaving the score 26 points to 12. By this stage the game had become an even contest with free flowing rugby by both sides and the physicality continuing with big hits all over the pitch. Instonians suffered a couple of injuries as a result of the collisions as Withers and Hill became human wrecking balls.

Another try for Instonians was quickly followed by a superb line break and score by Glenn to make the final score 19 - 34 in Instonians favour.

Overall, this has been a good pre season campaign for the first 15 with many new players coming in and making an impact. Special credit must go to the new lads from Larne Grammar, Steven Dickey, Robbie Doey, Euan Glenn, Jack Withers, and Tre Brittan. These lads all have great careers in front of them at this club and will play a massive part in the season ahead.

NEXT WEEK FIXTURES:

Lurgan 1sts v Larne 1sts
Larne 2nds v Bangor 3rds

All support is very welcome.
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