RBAI sprang a major surprise in the second round of the Ulster Schools' Cup on Saturday when they disposed of favourites Methodist College in a thrilling contest watched by 5,000 at Osborne Park.

Richard Girvan gave Methody the lead with a sixth minute try but David McComb's two penalties gave RBAI a 6-5 interval lead. They went further ahead when number eight Ian Rees blazed over for a try which McComb converted, and when McComb added a penalty RBAI had taken a firm grip on the game at 16-5.

Methody's response came in the form of a spectacular Simon Surgeror try which David Finlay converted but RBAI finished strongly with Gareth McCullough crossing for a try to which McComb added the points.