Portadown ‘s U 19s gained revenge for their early season loss in the maiden city when they defeated City of Derry 23-3 in  the Ulster U 19 League at Chambers Park last Saturday.

 The locals started brightly and took a 3-0 lead when out half Chris Cousens converted penalty awarded against City of Derry for coming in the side at a  ruck. The locals dominated the early exchanges but were unable to capitalise on good line out possession provided by lock forward Lee Bicker. City of Derry were awarded a penalty on one of their rare visits into the Poradown half and levelled the score at 3-3. Just before half time Cousens added another 3 points, when he punished yet another City of Derry infringement, leaving Portadown 6-3 up at half time.

From the restart Portadown attacked and a sweeping back movement following quick ruck ball saw centre Robbie Faloon, who was a constant threat to Derry throughout the match with his powerful running, go over close to the posts. Cousens added the conversion to give Portadown a 13-3 lead. The Portadown forwards dominated up front with a number of excellent rolling mauls keeping City of Derry under pressure. Lee Bicker and captain Gareth Mc Niece were particularly prominent and every time they carried the ball they got over the gainline.

The Portadown backs enjoying a surplus of good quick ball continued to keep City of Derry under pressure. Cousens added another penalty before prop forward Ben Williamson finished off another powerful drive by the forwards by touching down close to the posts. Cousens added the conversion leaving Portadown clear winners on the day.

Lock forward Bicker shaded the Man of the Match award with his excellent display in the lineout, his powerful ball carrying and a high workrate throughout. Captain and openside flanker Gareth Mc Niece and centre Robbie Faloon also were outstanding on the day.

Coach Darren Thompson was delighted with the performance as it was the first time in weeks that the team has played to its abilities with both backs and forwards combining well.

 The team’s next match is on Wednesday night when they take on Ballymena in the Nutty Krust Floodlit tournament in a 7.45 kick off.

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