The countdown is over. The 2025 Ulster Schools' Cup rugby final is here. Wallace High School and Royal School Armagh clashed at Kingspan Stadium, home to Ulster Rugby, on March 17, 2025. Fans flocked to the stadium, eager to see potential future stars showcase their talent and deliver thrilling moments. And they got exactly what they hoped for, as the final unfolded with plenty of tries, close calls, and drama.
This highly anticipated match carried extra significance for both teams. The two sides were initially slated to meet for the Schools' Cup title in 2020, but the match was canceled due to the Covid-19 pandemic. Instead, they shared the trophy, which only intensified the rivalry and heightened expectations for this year's final.
Wallace High School's team showcased their strength with notable players including Rio McDonagh, James Gould, and Jon Rodgers, who captained the squad. Conversely, Royal School Armagh boasted talent from Alex Stinson, Thomas Dougan, and Evan Hughes, demonstrating they were equally prepared for the challenge.
The match kicked off with both teams acknowledging the significance of the occasion. Armagh drew first blood with a penalty from Evan Hughes, who skillfully slotted the ball through the posts to give his side a 3-0 lead.
Wallace responded quickly, with hard work from their forwards leading to their first try. After pushing forward from the lineout, prop Rio McDonagh burrowed over the line. Unfortunately for Wallace, Josh Geddis' conversion attempt was pulled wide, making the score 5-3.
Royal School Armagh displayed resilience and took the lead again with Cameron Cummings scoring their first try of the match as he surged over from close range. Hughes capitalized on the momentum, slotting the conversion to secure a 10-5 lead for Armagh.
The tit-for-tat nature of the first half continued as Wallace struck back, with hooker James Gould powering over to tie the match at 10-10. Geddis successfully converted the try, momentarily shifting the momentum back to Wallace's advantage.
Not to be outdone, the game's ebb and flow continued, leading to Wallace's standout player, McDonagh, scoring another try just before half-time. Wallace held the advantage, ending the first half at 17-10.
Both teams wasted no time after the break. Wallace maintained dominance and extended their lead when Luke Dillon, following great teamwork and set plays, dashed over for another try. Geddis' successful conversion put Wallace at 24-10 with time still left to play.
With under ten minutes remaining, Armagh pressed on and the captain Thomas Dougan touched down, bringing the score to 24-15. Despite relentless efforts to close the gap, the match ended as Wallace High School won their first Schools' Cup title.
The significance of the victory was not lost on Wallace’s players, who reveled in the culmination of their hard work and dedication—a long-cherished dream finally achieved. McDonagh's influence on the game earned him the Player of the Match title, recognizing his pivotal contributions.
Wallace’s win marks the end of their long wait for their first Danske Bank Schools' Cup title after being runners-up five times previously. They had also tasted shared glory with the same Armagh side just five years prior. This title has solidified their importance and competitiveness within the sport at the school level.
Fans and supporters of Wallace celebrated this remarkable victory, cheering their team on as they lifted the trophy, symbolizing not just the win but years of perseverance and ambition. Coach Derek Suffern reflected on the victory, emphasizing the importance of teamwork and dedication throughout the season.
After the match, excitement reverberated among the supporters of Wallace High School. Rio McDonagh, with his powerful plays and leadership, stood at the center of celebrations, receiving praise from players, coaches, and fans alike.
Wallace's historic win at the 2025 Schools' Cup final is not just about the title; it is also about the memories created, friendships forged, and the legacy left for future colleagues to aspire to. Once again, rugby has proven to be more than just a game—it's about building character, learning life lessons, and fostering community spirit.
No matter what the future holds, the echoes of this remarkable match will resonate within the walls of Wallace High for years to come, and it is surely the beginning of many more successes for their proud rugby tradition.
