Ballina's U-18.5 Boys came away with victory after a hard-fought challenge game in Carrick-on-Shannon on Sunday.
Both teams played some very enterprising rugby, which was highly competitive throughout before the Moysiders prevailed by six points, 35-29.
On a blustery day the first quarter was played out between both teams' 22's, with defences on top, thwarting any scoring opportunity, as both attacks worked hard to penetrate resolute rearguards.
The home side took the initiative in the first half, scoring two tries. However, Ballina’s Jake Carr responded for the visitors, touching down on a snipe from a goal line maul to register the first of his three tries, all of which he converted for a great personal points haul.
Trailing by seven at the break, the Ballina Boys returned to the field in determined mood and Carr's second and third tries put the visitors ahead by seven. Further converted tries by Finn Sheehan and Cian Fitzpatrick, whose try was converted by prop Jamie Devers (it was that kind of a day) saw Ballina prevail, despite the home side posting three well-worked second-half tries themselves.
This was a very worthwhile run out for both teams, who entertained the spectators with a well-fought nip and tuck contest and enjoyed the post-match hospitality, especially the homemade chilli!
Thanks to the U-17 boys who played on the day and congratulations to all on a good day for Ballina RFC.