Solid pack inspires win

POSSESSION may be nine-tenths of the law but, in the case of Blackrock, it did not mean they had a water-tight case for success at Eaton Park on Saturday.

Instead it was the home side who stole the victory by taking their chances and offering stout defence. After all, this was only their second win and a badly-needed one it was too. Not only did they claim the points but they also jumped over Blackrock in the Division One table.

In the opening third of the match the Ballymena pack set about their task with relish, tying in their opposite numbers, helping themselves to a generous supply out to touch and leaving Blackrock in the unenviable position of having to chase the game.

Blackrock fell behind in the opening minute when Johnny McCartney, who was magnificent in both tight and loose for the home side, drove forward. Further ground was made before second row Cary Longwell grabbed possession and flung himself across the visitor's line. Ricky Mcllmoyle converted.

McIlmoyle increased Ballymena's lead with a well-struck penalty and Blackrock's efforts were not helped when owing forward Rory Rogers was taken from the pitch on a stretcher with a head injury.

But Blackrock were nothing if not courageous and they reduced the deficit when Gerry Harvey kicked a penalty.

Ballymena, though, quickly emphasised that the visitors were to be denied a toe-hold in the game. The industrious Stephen Ritchie sparked a fine, flowing movement that culminated in the hooker himself crossing the Blackrock line. McIlmoyle added the points.

Blackrock, taking heart from the efforts of Casey and Oswald in their back row and the kicking of Harvey, responded with a second Harvey penalty. And this was the signal for a strong bout of Blackrock pressure.