Grammar back in Schools’ Cup action

The North Road lads secured their spot in round three of the prestigious competition thanks to an emphatic 23-6 victory over Lurgan College earlier this month. The confidence-boosting win came courtesy of a Michael Black penalty and four unconverted tries from Christian Robinson, Robert O’Callaghan, captain Joel Bell and David Stewart.

However, this weekend’s match-up with BRA is an altogether different proposition and the Carrick lads will have to be on top of their game if they are to upset the odds and claim a cup scalp at Roughfort.

BRA won the tournament in 1997 and they have shared the title on three occasions. They have also finished as runners-up five times.

Meanwhile, Greenisland lad Tom McConkey will lead Belfast High School into battle against Royal School Dungannon in County Tyrone.

The High School’s First XV go into the clash on the back of an impressive 52-18 defeat of Banbridge Academy. Star of the show that day was Ulster under-18 centre Jordan Garford who weighed in with five tries.

Skipper McConkey returns from injury for this weekend’s game and he’s hoping his side can produce the goods and progress in the competition.

“The win over Banbridge was very good for the morale of the team. To win by such a large scoreline definitely showed we have a lot of potential. The victory was without a doubt generated by our talented backline, with Jordan Garford and Adam White leading the way,” he said.

“Ever since I got injured it’s been difficult watching the team perform and win without being able to be on the pitch. I’ve been out for just under six weeks now, and I honestly can’t wait to get stuck in again. Matthew Connolly has done an excellent job leading the team to multiple victories in my absence, including the cup win over Banbridge.”

McConkey insisted the team’s good form is down to hard work and insisted they will be fully focused in their preparations for Saturday’s match.

“I think one of the main reasons for our success is that our squad works as a team both on and off the pitch,” he added. “Over the last few months we have worked on our specific roles and every player brings something unique to the team, contributing to a 15-man game.

“We’re going to treat this one like we have almost all games; no distractions, work hard, and focus on what we could improve from our last game. Although the victory against Banbridge was very encouraging for the team, there were areas that need attention before a difficult away trip to Dungannon.”

Report by John Gillespie | Twitter: @Times_Sport