ARDS Rugby Club played hosts to two exciting underage fixtures over the last week.
Last Wednesday evening, Ards U18s faced a formidable challenge against a polished and powerful CIYMS outfit. What followed was a spirited performance of youthful grit and determination up against experience, size and flair.
From the outset, CI asserted their dominance with slick phases and intelligent movement. Ards, however, showed early resilience, absorbing pressure before launching their own attacks, led by the elusive Ethan Spratt and the powerful Daniel Moore.
But just as momentum built, a dropped ball in midfield was pounced on by the CI 12, who capitalised with a piercing run and a deft kick ahead. The visiting number 13 collected smartly to open the scoring, the conversion extending the lead to 0-7.
Ards responded immediately from the restart with an injection of energy. Evan McGonigle surged into contact before feeding Matthew Johnston, who sold a sublime dummy before dotting down and adding the extras himself — a fine solo effort to level the scores at 7-7.
CI didn’t take long to hit back as another Ards fumble fell kindly to the CI winger, who raced in unopposed. Moments later, another turnover led to a third CI score, stretching their lead to 7-17.
Ards refused to fold and a surge from the pack, full of intent and muscle, powered over the line for their second try — the scorer lost in the melee, but the score narrowing the gap to 12-17. In the latter stages of the first half, a well-executed backs move saw the Ards defence torn apart and a CI try under the posts. This was swiftly followed by a solo effort from the CI 13, who dazzled with fancy footwork en route to a converted try and a 12-29 lead.
Still, Ards battled on with captain Ethan Spratt leading by example, supported by the tireless Noah Miskimmin. A flowing move saw Charlie Wallis make a searing break before Johnston again turned provider, delicately offloading to McGonigle who finished expertly out wide. 17-29 at the break: a lifeline and a deserved reward for Ards ’endeavour.
The second half began with renewed CIYMS pressure. Ards’ defence stood tall, their commitment never in doubt, but the relentless waves eventually told. A wind-affected clearance fell kindly to CI, and they took advantage to score in the corner for 17-34.
The visitors began to stretch their legs as fatigue crept into the Ards legs. A barnstorming carry from the CI back row set up another try, despite a brave tackle attempt, pushing the margin to 17-39. The final blow came in the dying moments as a tired pass was picked off for one last score, the match ending 17-46.
CIYMS were worthy winners, demonstrating class and cohesion across the park. But Ards, younger and less experienced, can hold their heads high. Their heart, defensive tenacity, and moments of attacking brilliance suggest a bright future. On another night, with fewer errors, the margin could’ve been much closer.
On Thursday evening, an Ards select side entertained the Doylestown Rugby Academy from Pennsylvania as part of their Ireland tour. Doylestown arrived at Hamilton Park on the back of two very good wins against Malahide and Ballyclare and were determined to finish their visit unbeaten.
The home squad was made up from players aged 15 to 17 from Ards, Civil Service and Donaghadee Rugby Clubs. The Ards select started brightly, however the visitors proved to be bigger, stronger and more direct and ran out comfortable winners.
Club president Warren Simpson hosted the tourists, their parents and all Ards players in the clubhouse post-match, where player of the match presentations were made and there was plenty of Irish stew and craic.
It was also great to welcome back an Ards ‘Black Knight’ as Mark Weir returned to the club as a Doylestown coach and was presented with an Ards 3rd XV match shirt of his own to take home.
Congratulations, Tom
Following his recent appearances for the Ireland Schools U18s in France, Ards and Regent House rugby player Tom Bell was presented with his international cap.
Tom played in two of the three matches and although unfortunately injured for the latest match, he is hoping to be fit for the next fixture against Georgia.
Condolences
President Warren Simpson would like to express his condolences and those of the club to members Angela (née Greer), Martyn and Ethan Barratt on the passing of Angela’s father Tommy. The club’s thoughts are with Angela, Martyn, Rhys, Ethan and the whole family at this time.
The funeral service will take place at Scrabo Presbyterian Church, Newtownards tomorrow (Friday) at 11.00am, followed by burial at Movilla Cemetery.
Condolences are also extended to club member and sponsor Richard Poulter, his daughters Mollie and Hannah and the wider family circle on the passing of Richard’s wife, Beverley.
FARLS
The eighth and final gathering of the 2024/2025 season for the FARLS (Friends of Ards Rugby Lunch Society) will take place at the clubhouse tomorrow (Friday).
It’s a great opportunity to meet up with old friends and former players, and to enjoy a couple of hours of memories and some rare craic.
The FARLS meet at 12pm for 12.30pm. If you would like to come along to future gatherings, please get in touch with Jason Forsythe either by email: jsforsytheards@gmail.com or by phone on: 0780 338 6292
Club / School Window
As the school rugby season ends, Ards RFC welcomes boys and girls from years eight–14 to join their club/school rugby programme. It’s a great chance to reconnect with former teammates or try rugby for the first time.
The window runs through April and May, and all players will receive quality training, competitive matches and most of all have good craic. The window is open to all boys and girls from Years 8 to 14. Training for all youth players continues on Wednesday evenings at 7pm. New players at all levels are always welcome at Ards Rugby and no playing experience is necessary. If you fancy giving Ards Rugby a try, contact the following for details:
Boys’ Youth Rugby – Matthew (07702 449339) / ardsyouthrugby@gmail.com
Girls’ Youth Rugby – Jill (07742 045798) / girls@ardsrugby.co.uk
Men’s Shed
The Men’s Shed meets every Monday from 9.30am to 12.30pm at Hamilton Park, offering social connection and light physical activity. No rugby knowledge or club membership are required — just come along.
Parking reminder
All visitors to Ards Rugby are reminded to use the designated parking within Hamilton Park. Please respect ‘No Parking’ zones on Lansdowne Road, especially on match days. PSNI may issue penalties for violations.
