23rd September 2006

Armagh swept to the top of the Qualifying League by defeating Coleraine at the Palace Grounds on Saturday. By winning again they have retained their season's unbeaten record with a splendid point's tally of 161 for and 22 against. Even more impressive is the fact that only one try has been scored against the Armagh team (that when only 13 men were on the field!) The confidence - now well justified - which this Armagh team are demonstrating must be a source of great concern for the teams left struggling behind in the league.

Saturday's victory illustrated Armagh 's ability to win games in all weather conditions since the difference between the previous Saturday's victory at Limavady on a fine summer's day and last Saturday's downpour could not have been greater. Home and away venues also pose no problems, nor does any recollection of last season's defeats create any doubts for this young side. The last two wins have been helpful, too, since they were against strong opposition which put in a much attacking play as they could muster. Armagh are in the happy position of having an excellent attack which has earned 21 tries and an excellent defence which has only conceded on try. Add to that the magnificent kicking ability of Johnny Steenson whose confidence now extends to taking penalty kicks from inside his own half!

Armagh began this game with a take by James Morton from a Coleraine line-out 5 metres from the away line. The Armagh skipper went over for a good un-converted try. Coleraine hit back immediately with a penalty, but Steenson put over the first of his five penalties to make the score 8-3.

Eoghan Curran came on as a temporary substitute while Alan Redpath received attention. Penalties to both sides followed but Coleraine missed two from similar positions. Steenson was barely short with one of his very long kicks to see the score 11-6 at half time.

The weather deteriorated and Coleraine set up a good attack when a defensive kick was charged down and Armagh conceded a five metre scrum and a penalty, having just avoided a Coleraine try. Coleraine had the misfortune of having both their centres yellow-carded and Steenson extended the Armagh lead to 17-9.

An attempted Coleraine clearance kick was blocked by flanker Joe Clarke near their line and Phil Polack deftly nipped in to touch-down. This was converted. The referee then rather oddly blew up for full time three minutes early, not including injury time.

However, Coleraine could scarcely have saved the day from a 24-9 position. Once again, the Armagh line-out had a splendid day, with James Morton perhaps the most productive but with so many fine jumpers to choose from, it must pose big problems for opposition forwards.

The scrums were also very rewarding against a big Coleraine pack.

Stephen Auld had another outstanding game both in attack and defence while Phil Polack justified gaining the man of the match award.

Weather conditions and a very alert Coleraine defence meant that Johnny Allen did not break through for any tries but he certainly tried his best.

So Armagh face the trip to Enniskillen next Saturday with much high spirits wary, that although the Fermanagh side share joint bottom position in the league, with only one victory from four games every match has to be approached with caution!

Be sure to make a note in your diary to come to Enniskillen and support this young & talented side.