Match Preview: Schools' Cup Rd 3 Ballyclare High School vs Bangor Grammar School - 07/02/2015

Ballyclare High School vs Bangor Grammar School

Ballyclare High School are currently ranked 4th in the province by Front Row Union, and competed in the 2012 Schools' Cup Final. On paper, they look to be clear favourites to prevent Bangor Grammar School from a Schools' Cup Quarter Final.

Match Preview

Bangor Grammar School shocked many 'experts' by defeating Dalriada School last time out, two weeks ago. What had looked earlier in the season like an underperforming squad failing to capitalise on potential had become a well drilled slick outfit, creating many chances and more resolute in defence. The reward for winning last time is a very tricky away tie with the much fancied Ballyclare team.

Ballyclare High School are one of the strongest schools in Ulster both in the classroom and on the rugby pitch. They've been grinding out the results all through the season with wins against Sullivan and Ballymena, however perhaps the defeats to Campbell and RBAI (their only two of the season) will live longer in the memory.

As Ballyclare are ranked in the top 8, they have thus far been handed byes through the opening rounds and are yet to be tested in competition this season. Bangor must capitalise on the competitive inexperience to have any chance of progression to the subsequent rounds.

Team News

It's a completely unchanged 23 man squad since the Dalriada match for Bangor. Several players appear to have overcome injury concerns of their own, but should any not be available for whatever reason, Joe McLarnon (the 24th man) will be ready to step into the squad. The big news is that Connor McKee is still not able to start for Bangor, even though his broken jaw sustained on tour has completely healed. He will be called on in the second half, or perhaps earlier if necessary.

Match Details

Venue: Ballyclare High School 1st XV Pitch, Rashee Road, Ballyclare

Kick off time: 11.00 am

Last Encounter: BGS 10 - 48 BCL

BGS 2014-15 Form: P12 / W4 / D0 /L8

Follow the match with live updates on the Gryphiti Twitter Account, Facebook page and here on the Gryphiti website. We'll have video highlights online later in the week. Best of luck to all B.G.S lads playing for the 1st XV tomorrow.

Simon Hull