Finally, after over year of missing competitive action, Limavady Grammar once again hosted a Schools’ Rugby Competition as the U16s Cup kicked off. This competition was founded this year as an opportunity for the boys who missed Medallion Rugby last year to compete for a Trophy.

And what a return it was! LGS hosted their local and fiercest rivals, Foyle College on what was a wet Wednesday afternoon. The home side started off strong and were rewarded for their early pressure with a penalty opportunity, but the shot was pushed wide. However, it wasn’t long before LGS had their next opportunity. The powerful Y11 Pupil, James McL, who impressed throughout the day peeled off the back of a scrum close to the line, releasing flanker and captain Odhran C who dived into the corner. The conversion and another penalty opportunity were missed with difficult underfoot conditions, but LGS had a 5 point lead.

After dominating the opening phases, the home team were surprised to find themselves behind at half time, as Foyle College worked their way out wide allowing their winger to cross for their opening try. A penalty just before the break gave Foyle a 10-5 lead at the break.

This was the wake up call the boys needed, with coaches Mr Dunlop and Mr Hughes urging the boys to keep calm in attack and continue to bring the same intensity in defence. Ethan M, Odhran C and Adam McC lifted the defensive effort in the second half winning back vital possession, while James McL, fly-half Cooper McC and centre Conor J kept LGS on the front foot.

With the wind and crowd behind them, LGS began to take control of territory and this offered another opportunity. Jack B spotted a soft shoulder on the edge of the ruck close to the line and powered over for the home teams second try. Scrum half, James L converted the try giving LGS a 12-10 lead.

With plenty of time still on the clock, Foyle threw everything at Limavady, but Odhran C kept popping up at the breakdown winning vital turn overs, allowing Limavady Grammar U16s to hold on for a fantastic victory.

It was brilliant to see the boys full of joy at full time, back doing what they love and representing the school so admirably.