Larne reach last eight of the Gordon West Cup

Larne took control early on going 6-0 up courtesy of two Andrews penalties.

Limavady had the chance to half the deficit with a penalty of their own but it fell short.

Larne regrouped with coaches Marshall and Cameron making a few tactical changes to try and relieve pressure in the scrum. McIlheron moved to hooker and as the game kicked off again it made a big difference.

The intensity of the match lifted and ferocious hits from both sides began to become more frequent.

Hunter and Crampsey led by example in the pack as always which gave some of the younger players the confidence boost during a tight spell.

Two more penalties put Larne 12-0 to the good with 10 minutes to go but it was a shortlived advantage.

After numerous pick-and-go phases from Limavady, the pressure took its toll and the home side crossed the line for a converted try.

But resilient Larne hit back when Hall exploited a gap to dart in under the posts.

“It was a great all-round performance which got us over the line and this sets a marker out for the rest of the season as the team looks to continue its 100 per cent record,” said skipper, Ryan Garrett.

Larne (1-15): C. Rea, McAlister, J. Johnston, Crampsey, C. McKinty, Jamison, M. McIlheron, Hunter, Garrett, Andrews, Burns, Thomas, I McIlheron, Agnew, Hall.

n Meanwhile, tries from Montgomery, Rennix and Aston helped Larne Seconds to a 30-12 win over CIYMS at Glynn.