Win over Ballynahinch puts Dungannon second

Dungannon 13 Ballynahinch 8

Dungannon's triumph over Ballynahinch in a well-contested Ulster derby at Stevenson Park has moved them up to second place in AIB League Division 1B.

Tries in each half from winger Craig Gilroy and full-back John McGuckin, both off well-placed chip kicks, saw John Andrews' men claim their second league win.

The Tyrone side led 8-3 at the interval, thanks to Gilroy’s touchdown and a penalty from McGuckin.

‘Hinch had the wind but could only muster a penalty from their Kiwi out-half Ryan Bambry.

Both sides deserve credit for trying to cope with the heavy wind and rain and the visitors, who lost their grip on the AIB Cup last season, rose to the challenge.

They pinched a lineout in the Dungannon 22 and worked Ireland Under-20 winger Nevin Spence over in the corner for an unconverted try.

Yet the decisive moment came when McGuckin was able to run onto a chip over the top and cross for the match-winning try.

‘Gannon had many heroes on the day but flanker Ali Birch stood out, covering every blade of grass in another typically committed performance.

Scorers:

Dungannon: Tries: Craig Gilroy, John McGuckin; Pen: John McGuckin

Ballynahinch: Try: Nevin Spence; Pen: Ryan Bambry

HT: Dungannon 8 Ballynahinch 3