Omagh through to Next Round of Towns Cup

Match Report: Omagh vs Larne – Towns Cup

Omagh welcomed Larne to the Thomas Mellon Playing Fields on Saturday for their Towns Cup clash. The game kicked off in wet conditions, resulting in a slippery ball and some early handling challenges for both sides.

Larne conceded several penalties close to their own try line, but Omagh were unable to capitalise in the opening exchanges. However, the home side’s persistence paid off when Matty Eccles crossed the line for the first try of the match, with Watherson-Spencer adding the extras to make it 7–0.

Larne looked to respond immediately, but Omagh’s defence held firm. The Accies continued to press forward and came agonisingly close to a second try, being stopped just short of the line on a number of occasions. A Larne penalty gave Omagh another attacking platform, and a well-executed line-out move showed clear preparation on the training ground.

Despite Omagh’s pressure, Larne’s pace out wide eventually paid off as they scored in the corner, followed by a well-struck conversion to level the score at 7–7. Around the half-hour mark, the rain eased and the sun broke through, making for more pleasant viewing conditions. Confidence grew on both sides, and the contest became more evenly balanced.

Omagh came close again before half-time, only to be forced into touch just before grounding the ball. They continued to threaten but couldn’t add to the tally, leaving the score tied at 7–7 at the break.

The rain returned at the start of the second half, but Omagh adapted well and began to dominate possession. Robbie Sproule, continuing his fine run of form, powered over for Omagh’s second try of the match. The conversion attempt drifted wide in difficult, windy conditions, leaving the score at Omagh 12 – Larne 7.

Omagh’s discipline and structure shone through as Scott Ballantine extended the lead with a third try, making it 17–7. Larne pushed hard in the closing stages, but Omagh’s defence held strong, successfully holding up a late Larne try attempt to seal a well-earned victory.

Final Score: Omagh 17 – Larne 7



Meanwhile on the neighbouring pitch…

Omagh’s 2nd XV faced off against Ballynahinch 3rd XV in a closely contested encounter. Both teams traded scores throughout the match, but it was Omagh who held their nerve to edge a thrilling one-point victory.

Full-Time: Omagh II 20 – 19 Ballynahinch III

Omagh Scorers:
• Shay Daly – Try
• Mervyn Edgar – Try
• Andrew Johnston – Try
• Oisin Hume – 1 Conversion, 1 Penalty

Ballynahinch Scorers:
• 3 Tries, 2 Conversions

Another strong performance from the club’s 2nd XV, rounding off a successful day of rugby at the Thomas Mellon Playing Fields.