Soni Ulster Premiership League Section B 29th December 2017

Scorers: Stewart(1*Try), Magrath(1*Try, 2*Conv, 1*Pen)

There was little in the way of festive cheer to be had at Deramore Park, where Belfast Harlequins defeated Rainey Old Boys 18-17 in a mundane Soni Ulster Premiership League Section B fixture which never rose above a mediocre standard.  The lights were on right from the start, which was perhaps, just as well, since the activity on the pitch never threatened to lighten up the gloom.  While the outcome meant little to both sides, they will both be anxious to improve on this showing.  'Quins face a daunting task to stay in Division 2B, while Rainey can, and must, do a lot better if they are to keep the pressure on leaders Old Crescent.  The city side had more desire on the  day, but were not good enough to take advantage of Rainey's lack of hunger in the loose.

'Quins were first to show and took a fifth minute lead with a penalty.  Rainey eventually found some rhythm, a counter from halfway and a swerve infield by left-wing Stirling opening up a big gap for supporting flanker Stewart to get on his shoulder for the scoring pass.  Magrath converted.  A great chance was then wasted when the city side somehow won a turnover right on their own line and they then scored in the corner after some good ball retention to take a 10 - 7 lead.

Rainey piled forward at the start of the second half with 'Quins doing well to clear, only for Lamberton and Moran to launch a crossfield counter attack.  Some good handling took them close and after making no impression with two penalties, Magrath tapped over a third to leave the teams level.  Prop O'Hagan broke through in style, but lacked support.  'Quins regained the lead when Lamberton was binned for a high tackle and Magrath pulled a forty yard attempt just wide.

As Rainey struggled to find any real momentum, 'Quins delivered the decisive blow on 75 minutes.  After stealing ball behind a Rainey ruck, they followed up a high kick which was not taken and hacked on to the Rainey line.  Lamberton got back first, but had to carry over and from the scrum, a grubber kick set up a try in the corner.  Rainey worked their way to the other end to put the homesters under pressure and Magrath nipped in to touch down a loose ball and add the conversion.  Two more minutes were played, but the 'Quins line was not threatened.

TEAM:  R.Lamberton, C.Moran, A.Donaghy, D.McMurray, N.Stirling, A.Magrath, S.McLean, S.Rutledge, M.Nevin, C.Smyth, R.McCusker, J.McCusker, A.Harbinson, M.McCusker, P.Stewart.

REPLACEMENTS  :  T.O'Hagan, S.Crooks, C.Smith, F.Quinn, M.O'Neill.