Down High completed an amazing comeback win on Saturday to extend their winning streak to three matches. The home pitches at the Swamp certainly lived up to their name as the game was played in heavy rain. The Down side seemed to be still in the changing rooms as Banbridge ran in three tries (two of which were converted) to go into a 19-0 lead after 15 minutes. Only then did the home side start to play rugby both offensively and defensively. Finally getting some territorial advantage and retaining possession for a number of phases, prop Darius Kittle barged over from close range to give a half time score of 19-5 to the visitors.
The second half was a complete contrast to the first and Banbridge's attempt to move the ball was met with some ferocious tackling and Down were able to turnover possession on a number of occasions. It took almost ten minutes however for the pressure to tell and Matthew Edgar finished a fine series of pick and drives to touchdown on the whitewash to make it 19-10. Straight from the kick off, the home side were back in Banbridge's half with searing line breaks and runs from Joe Charles and Jonny Jackson and the latter was on hand to finish off a fine backline move to score under the posts. Benji Hamilton converted. With only two points in the game the Mount Crescent boys had their tails up and within a couple of minutes scored the winning try. A great run from winger Brian Mitchell saw him give a lovely offload to replacement forward Ross Graham who powered over in the corner. Down were able to hold on for the final two minutes and the final whistle was met with euphoric scenes from the home team. Credit must go to both teams for the standard of rugby played in wet and windy conditions but special mention must go to Down for their never say die attitude.
Man of the Match- Stephen Campbell