Last week was an eventful one for Portora rugby and the competitive action began early. On Thursday afternoon, the U-13 side hosted Devenish College in a competitive encounter.

Having had a mixed season and coming off the back off a few defeats, the Portora side were looking to put in a good performance as their season closes.

Things started evenly with the less experienced but strong Devenish side tackling and defending well. Portora started to pile on the pressure, their back line moved the ball quickly, and winger Ben Forbes sprinted clear to score in the corner. Josh Elliott converted from a tight angle out on the touch line to add the points and the home side were up and running.

Portora's scrummaging was working well and Forbes again punished the Devenish boys with another try in the corner, unconverted. This was followed quickly by scores from forwards Jonathan Magwood and Joel Johnston, both converted by Elliott.

Devenish rallied and defended well, winning ball at the rucks and breakdowns, where the Portora side were not at their best for the last 15 minutes of the half, but were unable to force a score.

Devenish had a good period of possession at the start of the second half, led by the tenacious Charlie Mitten and drove Portora back into their 22, but were unable to capitalise.

A timely turnover saw Elliott collect a pass deep inside the Portora half, brush off one tackle and draw the Devenish back line, before chipping forward twice to dive on the ball and score, which he then converted.

Portora dominated to run in three more tries, two by the flying Forbes, two of which were converted by Elliott.

Credit to Devenish as they haven't played much rugby but gave a good account of themselves.

A good overall team performance by the Portora side and coming two days before the 1st XV Schools' Cup match was a morale booster for all, including some of the senior boys who were present supporting their younger colleagues.