Banbridge Academy Boys’ Hockey 1^st XI are through to the quarter-finals of the John Minnis Estate Agents Burney Cup after a thrilling 3-2 victory over Friends’ School.  The Lisburn school arrived at Havelock Park having defeated the Academy three times already this season but they met a side who were definitely up-for-the-cup.

The Academy side, supported by Prentice Cars and Sinton’s at the Bridge, started the game strongly and went in front after just five minutes. After the midfield stole the ball, it was quickly released to Luke McConnell who slotted the ball past the advancing Friends’ keeper to the delight of the large home support.  Friends’ couldn’t get their renowned passing game to flow and the Academy defence easily snuffed out any attacks.  Midway through the half Edward Rowe doubled the home side’s lead with a low drag from a penalty corner.  The Academy were comfortably in control of the game but some poor tackling in defence saw Friends’ pull a goal back from a great solo effort giving goalkeeper Scott Dale no chance.

The second half saw Friends’ come out fighting. The Academy seemed to be dealing well with the pressure until a defence slip-up saw a breakaway equaliser for the Lisburn side.  Despite their growing confidence, Friends’ created few chances while the Academy were always a threat on the counterattack.  Indeed Philip Campbell’s effort saw the Friends’ keeper pull off a wonderful save when the ball seemed to be past him.

With only minutes remaining, the Academy won a penalty corner after great play by Mark Barlow. Edward Rowe kept his cool to launch another pile-driver drag flick past the keeper to win the game for the Academy to coach Simon Jess’ delight.

The quarter-final draw will see RBAI visit Havelock Park on Wednesday 27^th February for a 3pm hit off.

Squad: Scott Dale, Ryan Simms, Lewis Bingham, Charlie Rowe, Harry Lockhart, Mark Barlow, Lewis Groves, Edward Rowe, Philip Campbell, Luke McConnell, Chris Curry, Louis Rowe, Matthew McClimonds, Cody Large, Luke Watt.

For information about Banbridge Academy Boys’ Hockey and details of all fixtures, follow @BAboyshockey Twitter feed.