Campbell College are back on top of Ulster schools’ rugby after a dramatic 26–22 victory over RBAI, sealed with the final play of the game at Ravenhill.
Photo: Ulster Rugby on X
Hooker David Nelson proved the difference, forcing his way over the line in the closing seconds before Jack Best added the conversion to secure the win — and spark huge celebrations among the Campbell support.
It marks Campbell’s first Schools’ Cup success since 2018, ending a long wait in the most prestigious competition in Northern Irish school rugby.
⚡ Fast Start from Campbell
Campbell couldn’t have asked for a better opening.
A sharp break down the left from Rus Lovo opened up space, and his offload found James Wells, who finished well to get the first points on the board.
RBAI responded quickly.
A slick attacking move involving Andrew Purcell and Elliott Magowan released Adam Millar, who raced in from distance to level things up and settle any early nerves.
🔁 Momentum Swings Before the Break
Campbell regained the lead through Nelson’s first try, coming off a well-executed driving maul, with Best adding the extras.
RBAI continued to push and thought they had edged ahead when Jack Coulter crossed, only for it to be ruled out for a forward pass.
They didn’t have to wait long.
Cian McClean powered over to bring Inst level, with a difficult conversion from Charlie O’Connor putting them right back in it.
McClean struck again just before halftime, breaking through and finishing under the posts to give RBAI a 19–12 lead at the interval.
🔄 Second Half Response
Campbell came out with intent after the restart.
Within minutes, Lovo again created the opening, this time setting up Harry Wells, who crossed in the corner to close the gap.
The game tightened from there, with both sides trading territory and pressure.
A well-taken penalty from O’Connor looked to have nudged RBAI into a winning position heading into the final stages.
⏱️ Late Drama Decides It
But Campbell weren’t finished.
After building sustained pressure through multiple phases, they forced their way back into RBAI territory — and in the final moments, Nelson drove over for his second try of the game.
With everything on the line, Best kept his composure to convert and put Campbell ahead.
There was no time left.
🏆 A Final That Delivered
This was a final that had everything — early tries, momentum swings, and a finish worthy of the occasion.
RBAI will feel they were within touching distance, particularly after leading late on, but Campbell’s persistence proved decisive.
For Campbell College, it’s a return to the top — and a Schools’ Cup win built on resilience when it mattered most.
📊 Final Score
Campbell College 26–22 RBAI
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