Weekend match reports and club news from around the province
ST. SENAN?S RFC
Val Byrnes PRO
Munster Junior Plate
Senan’s were away to Richmond on Sun 10th Feb and came away with an important win to keep them in the Plate and a game against Old Crescent in the next round on Sun 24th Feb at home in "Jimmy Slattery Park".
The game started well for the Saints with a good kick ahead by Shane Markham that David Dunne chased up and touched down for a try in the corner.
After 30 mins Declan Collins got a magic run under the posts to touch down for Senan’s second try which started form a quick penalty by Stephan Ryan and some very good ball handling by the Saints. The try was then converted by Shane Markham to put Senan’s in the lead by 12 points to 0. Just 8 mins later Richmond were over for a try from some poor defensive errors by the Saints. Half time left the scores at Senan’s 12 ? 5.
Richmond opened the scoring in the second half with a penalty after 7 mins of play to bring the scores to 12-8. It was 65 mins before we saw another score in the game with Richmond coming within 1 point of the Saints after another successful pen kick.
Senan’s weren’t done yet and spent the last 10 mins putting the pressure on and Shane Markham dually converted to leave the final score 15 ? 11 in Senan’s favour.
Playing well for the Saints on the day were the two Skerritt brothers, Trevor and Aaron, both dominating the line outs.
Senan’s next game is at home on Sun 17th Feb against Newcastle West in the Munster Junior League, and all support is highly welcome.
Senan’s: P. Ryan, G. Hall, T.O Brien, D. Fitzgerald, T. Skerritt, S. Ryan, M. O?Connell, A. Skerritt, F. Duggan, S. Markham, C. Sloane, D. Collins, A. Cowley, W. Kelly, D. Dunne. Replacements: D. Horkin, F. Lawlor, M. Lyons, G. McNamara, P. O?Halloran.
Other News
Senan’s Second team were home to St. Mary’s in the McInerney Cup on Sat 9th Feb and unfortunately came away with a loss against a very PHYSICAL side the final score there being 16 ? 10. Senan’s should have won it as they spent most of the last twenty mins. of the game under their posts but just couldn’t penetrate their defense.
The underage teams also had a bad weekend with both the under 14’s and under 16’s losing thier games against St. Mary’s and Scarriff.
The 14’s are away to UL.Bohs on Sun 17th Feb at 11.30am and the 16’s are at home to St. Mary’s and kickoff there is also at 11.30 am. Again all support is very welcome.
UL Bohemian RFC
Denis Ryan PRO
At last the good weather appears to have arrived, and with it a couple of excellent results against top opposition. In the Under 20 League, UL Bohs met Shannon, and with an excellent display of running rugby crossed for five very well worked tries in recording a 31-10 victory. Phil Gardiner touched down twice, while Aidan McNulty, Giles Boland and Paul Dillane also crossed the line for tries. Myles O?Riordan put over 3 conversions to complete the scoring. This should see UL Bohs into the play-offs but as some sides have still to finish their schedule, the final line up will not be known for some weeks.
The Munster Junior Cup game in Dooradoyle saw the Munster Senior Seconds League winners up against the Junior Cup holders, and in a game that was in the balance until the final minutes, UL Bohs got home by 22-14. Playing with the aid of the wind, in perfect conditions, UL Bohs took an early lead with an Aidan McNulty penalty. However, the visiting lineout misfired a number of times and Garryowen began to put on the pressure. This was rewarded with a penalty but UL Bohs quickly put over another to keep the differential. Garryowen came back to equalize, and then got in at the corner when a cleverly taken fast penalty found the UL Bohs defence napping. Indeed, the home side could have scored under the post from the original move if advantage had been played, but the 11-6 scoreline, soon increased to 14-9, looked ominous for the visitors. Aidan McNulty put over a magnificent long range penalty, and then Nick Lutman touched down beside the posts for a converted try to give UL Bohs a 16-14 lead at the break, which was scarcely deserved on play. However, UL Bohs were transformed in the second half and competed more strongly in every department. Aidan McNulty kicked another penalty to stretch the lead and then a monster from the right wing and into the wind, to put 8 points between the sides. Garryowen were not finished however and a kick downfield was barely knocked into touch in goal for the concession of a 5-metre scrum. A long assault on the UL Bohs line was held at bay, but the defence was magnificent, and in keeping Garryowen scoreless in the second half the entire squad deserved the praise they received at the end of a thrilling, sporting game.
KILFEACLE & DISTRICT RFC
Denis Wade PRO
Kilfeacle and District R.F.C. win against Ennis in third round of Munster Junior Cup.
Ennis R.F.C. 6 Kilfeacle and District R.F.C. 25
After an excellent performance and result against Young Munster, Kilfeacle and District RFC were drawn away against Ennis RFC in the third round of the Munster Junior Cup. Although our form of late has been showing signs of improvement everyone, from players, selectors, coaches and supporters, knew that if we were to take something from this game we would have to perform to the best of our ability as a team. So the 15 that took the pitch knew what they had to do, there was a resilient look about them and the same determined look in their eyes as they had for the game in Limerick a week previous. When you reach this stage of the competition you tend to build up a head of steam to raise the tempo and momentum. Games are coming thick and fast and coaches need to keep their squads grounded, as we all know to our cost, one good performance does not with any competition especially not the Munster Junior Cup.
In Ennis on Sunday the 10th of February the conditions were ideal for Rugby and the playing surface was is excellent condition. The ?Boys in Blue? showed their intent from the start and the large crowd of supporters were in buoyant form. As with many games in this competition the opening 20 minutes are a cagey affair as both sets of players test and probe their opposition. Eventually the game fell into a pattern as the visiting side came to terms with their opposition and started to stamp their mark on the game. The Kilfeacle side began to have the Lion?s share of possession and territorial advantages as backs and forwards combined well to build phase after phase of good play and maintained control of the ball for long periods. This dominance was reflected on the scoreboard when captain Pierce Breen finished with a well-taken try after an excellent break by Thom?s Costello. Ennis are nothing if resilient and put together some good team play but never really threatened the Kilfeacle defence, however after some good play they earned themselves a penalty in a kickable position and reduced the Kilfeacle lead to 2 points with the scoreboard showing 3 -5 in favour of the visitors. Kilfeacle again put together some good play but were restricted to another well-taken drop goal by Mark Hanley after 34 minutes, which left the scoreboard reading 3 – 8 at half time to the visiting side. The second half followed much the same pattern as the first with Kilfeacle putting all the pressure on the Ennis defence. Ennis defended well but could not halt the onslaught when Jack O?Sullivan made an excellent break to set up Ger Looby who scored a fine try after 48 minutes, which was converted with aplomb by Michael Collins. Michael Collins then stretched the lead even further with another well taken penalty. The supporters were expectant of more scoring but with the cushion of such a lead of 18 ? 3 and a stout defence facing them the ?Boys in Blue? were finding it difficult to add to their tally. It was the homeside that scored next with another penalty to reduce the deficit to 12 points. Kilfeacle seemed to take their foot off the gas and the remainder of the game was being played in the middle of the pitch until Kilfeacle captain, Pierce Breen, who had a towering inspirational man of the match performance, broke away to score under the posts to leave Michael Collins with a simple tap over conversion. The final score of 6 ? 25 favouring the visiting side was a true reflection of the game. Such a result lines up an away encounter against UCC on the 24th of February in the quarter final stages. These results are brought about by a full squad commitment, two players that also impressed on the day were John Coughlan and Tom Tierney.
We would like to thank everyone who travelled on the day and all from Ennis RFC, thank them for a good game and wish the club the best for the rest of the season.
Our fist team is back in competitive action next week in the Munster Junior League away to Skibbereen RFC with kick off at 2.30pm on Sunday the 17th of February. Skibbereen will be hot favourites for this one as the are pushing to claim league honours. The team are delighted by the amount of support they receive and hope that their supporters will continue to come along and support the ?Boys in Blue?.
Breath taking performance sees Under 16?s impressive away win.
Cashel R.F.C. 0 Kilfeacle and District R.F.C. 36
Before the Christmas break Kilfeacle R.F.C. Under 16?s team put together a string of excellent results to book their place in the East Munster Final which they won. Their attentions have now turned to the East Munster Under 16?s Cup. Their campaign continued with a very impressive win over local rivals Cashel RFC. It was another all round strong squad display with players such as Sean Compton, Stephen Bourke, Diarmuid O? Donnell, Ivan Mullins, Sean O?Connell, Gavin Hueston and Daragh McEniry impressing on the day for Kilfeacle.
Team coaches said they were delighted with the result and looked forward eagerly to progressing even further in the competition. They said that the season so far has been fulfilling for everyone and the team has progressed in leaps and bounds. They thanked Cashel for an enormously entertaining game played in only the best spirit.
The team is back in competitive action next week in the East Munster Cup at home to Thurles.
Kilfeacle Under 14s lose away to Clonmel
Clonmel R.F.C. 10 Kilfeacle and District R.F.C. 8
The under 14s team were on form and hungry for success when they visited close neighbours and rivals Clonmel RFC on the morning of Sunday 10th of February and, because of this put in a good performance but on the day they could not secure a great victory against a well-marshalled and strong Clonmel team even though they led at half time by 8 points to 5.
The team coach said ?I was delighted with the effort and endeavour displayed by our squad on the day, we gave a good account of ourselves and could have won. Clonmel on the day played well and did enough to earn their win and we wish them well for the rest of the season. I thought that all of the squad had excellent games and those who shone in a team were ?is?n O?Meara, Ricki Witney, Chris Coen, Sean Kiely, Ian Kelly, Bill Kiely, Cathal O?Donovan and Philip Ryan. We can sustain and even build on this performance as long as we have a consistent turnout for training?.
Under 10’s
Kilfeacle 2 Fethard 1
Kilfeacle 0 Clonmel 1
The outing this week was in Clonmel. Our first match was against Fethard and after a tough game we emerged victorious. The Captain for this week was Arnold O Dwyer and was well supported by tries scorer Jonathan Wade and Jamie Heuston and Luke Ashmore. The follow on match was against Clonmel and after a very physical game Clonmel bet us on the day those for mention were Joss Ryan, Brian McPartland, Cian Ryan, Michael Ryan, Caolan Henessey and Davy Byron.
Under 9’s
Kilfeacle 0 Fethard 2
Kilfeacle 5 Clonmel 0
As with the under 10’s under 9’s also played Fethard in their first game. This was a fine display of Rugby from both teams. The title of Captain for this week was Julian Lenk and he had great lieutenants in Rian Doody, Christopher Irwin, and Shane Farrell. In their last game against Clonmel they played some outstanding rugby to win the match. Connie Bradshaw, James Dee, Eoin Ryan and Michael O Brien caught the eye.
KILLORGLIN RFC
Aidan Clifford PRO
Killorglin Rugby Club?s annual Quiz night took place in Kingston?s Soda Club on last Thursday night, February 7th. The night was very enjoyable and we thank everyone involved.
Killorglin Rugby Club Senior Team played Galbally in the Munster Junior League last Sunday. Having postponed the fixture twice already due to unplayable pitch, they conceded home advantage and were forced to travel to East Limerick to play the game. A bitterly disappointing performance, albeit with a weakened side, cause Killorglin to lose the game 30-20. It puts Killorglin in a must win scenario for their last two games to guarantee survival in the league. Killorglin?s scores came in the form of a brace of tries by centre Kieran Crowley, and two penalties by Ronan Curtayne.
Killorglin Rugby Team: – 1 Karl J Daly, 2 D Flynn, 3 Ger O Sullivan, 4 Colm Conway, 5 Cole Stephens, 6 Mike Aherne, 7 Tom Healy, 8 Mike Breen, 9 Dave Coffey, 10 Ronan Curtayne, 11 Charles Johnson, 12 Jody Riordan, 13 Kieran Crowley, 14 Vivian O Callaghan, 15 Cian Lanigan.
Subs: – Sean Joy, Anthony Kelliher, Jason Clifford
Senior Team Training takes place Every Tuesday at 7pm and Fridays at 7:30pm at the Dragon?s Den All-weather pitch. All new players are welcome.
Fixtures:- On Saturday next, February 16th, Killorglin?s under 18 team take on Tralee in the West Munster League final in Direen , Killarney at 12 noon. All support would be greatly appreciated. On Sunday, the senior side host Kinsale in what is now a must win game at home. Following their heroics in the cup against the same side in Cork a few weeks ago, the visitors will be out for revenge. We would appreciate all support for what promises to be a great match. Kickoff is at 3pm in Community College grounds, Langford Street.
SHANNON RFC
Andrew McNamara PRO
After the high of beating UCC last time out in the southwestern conference of the All Ireland league, the U/20’s plummeted to what was probably their lowest point of the season last Saturday in Annacotty. A bonus point win would have secured top spot in the league, but what transpired was a substantial defeat that truly belies their ability. Instead of looking for a four try bonus point, they couldn’t manage a losing bonus point against a UL/Bohs side that were in exceptional form on the day and were full value for their win. It’s hard to equate what happened last Saturday and the excellence of the victory over UCC, but the lads should continue believe in their ability going forward and take the defeat as a valuable lesson learned .
It could have been so different though; after six minute Stanley Hayes grounded the ball after a close in lineout and maul. It was a perfect start and not long after we had an opportunity to stretch the lead, but the crucial pass went astray. UL/Bohs gained in confidence as the game progressed and turned in an exceptional performance. Despite trailing by a large margin the lads never gave up. After the break Eoghan Grace crossed for a try, but it wasn’t sufficient to bridge the gap and the home side looked more than comfortable. The result means that we’ll have to wait for results elsewhere to see where we finish in the table. Guaranteed of a top three finish, the position in the table determines who we will take on in the playoffs
Without a competitive fixture last weekend the seniors went to Derryknockane to play Young Munster in training game. Broken up into 2 twenty minutes and a thirty minute period, it was a game or benefit to both sides. The result was of no great significance, but for the record we won by five tries to three. It was great to see Ian Dowling back in the club colours and with his rehabilitation from his injury almost complete I’m sure his return will be warmly greeted by the Munster management. As well as Ian, Donnacha Ryan and Niall Ronan were delighted to get some game time. This week it’s back to the AIB league. This phase of the league is going to be crucial. The closing stages aren’t far off and although sitting nicely in second place, any slip up at this juncture could prove very costly. Ballymena travel to Coonagh for the first time in the AIL for the usual 2.30 kick off.
The second’s traveled to play Thurles in a friendly, and put in a very comprehensive performance, totally outclassing the home side. They scored an impressive six tries with a great display from everyone .Great to see Joey Moran back in action after almost three months on the treatment table. He put in a flawless kicking performance, converting all six tries. This was excellent preparation for this Sunday’s Munster junior cup game against Ballincollig who travel to Coonagh for the 2.30 kick off.
The thirds had a good 6-5 win on Saturday against a strong Garryowen squad in Dooradoyle. Played in perfect conditions, the tempo of the game was very fast, from end to end as both teams sought the vital scores. The pack laid the platform for the win, and excelled in defense and in the loose. The back row of Mike Goode, Jim Henegar and Geoff Collins were to the fore, and Fionn O’Dalaigh and Mike Daly turned in good performances in the lineout. Ger Ryan played a captain’s part from the base of the scrum, and was ably supported by Billy Supple, Jonathan Bedford and Pat Dundon out wide. Garryowen’s scrum half broke from close-in for their try early in the second half, with Shannon’s scores coming from the boot of outhalf Tony Hall with a penalty either side of half-time. They lads are setting their sights on the Webb and McInerny cups which start in the coming months and every game they play well help their preparations. Another friendly this Saturday sees them travel to play Cashel.
Our Under 13s maintained their 100% record in the North Munster League last Sunday beating Thomond 27-7 in Fitzgerald Park .The early concession of a try to our opponents focused the team who responded by scoring a number of tries. Amongst the scorers were Evan Fitzgerald, Greg O’Shea, Conor Glynn and man of the match Michael Foley.
The U/12’s hosted a blitz and home advantage seemed to suit then as they played exceptionally well to win out on the day.
Coonagh will be busy this Sunday morning with three underage games taking place. The U/13’s play Scariff and the U/16’s take on Garryowen, both at 11am. At 12.15 the U/18’s play UL/Bohs.
A reminder to that on Saturday 1st of March we are organizing a 30 year reunion lunch of our 1977/78 double cup winning team prior to our seniors AIL game with Terenure. This should be a marvelous occasion to honour a team that laid the foundations for our continued success throughout the eighties and on to the current era. The lunch takes place in the Woodfield house hotel and transfers to Coonagh before and after the game will be laid on all for only €;30. Anyone interested in attending can contact Club President Tommy Rowan for further details. 087 7979574 or email trowan@macrostainless.ie
Clonakilty RFC
Loosehead PRO
Focused Clon Win Again
Wanderers 12 Clonakilty 21
Clonakilty continued the remarkable turnaround of their season with an impressive away victory in D4 against Wanderers. The importance of this match was underlined by the appearance in the colours of Wanderers of Christian Warner. The Australian international, with 71 Leinster caps, was drafted in to help deal with Clon’s midfield threat from Gary Cribb, David Lombard and Paul Dillon. Indeed he did have an impact fashioning a try from nothing in the early stages. He formed a formidable partnership with Skibb’s David O’Keeffe but Clon’s confident backline was up to the task. This result has Wanderers in trouble and Clonakilty looking safe. It is too early to confirm safety as all teams below Clon have a mathematical chance of overtaking the West Cork side but now they could have an outside chance of a play off spot. It is remote but nevertheless the possibility is there such is the tightness and competitiveness of the division. UCC and Young Munster so long leading the table have been leap-frogged by Highfield, Malone and Belfast Harlequins.
It is interesting to note that Clon beat the top two, getting a bonus point against topside Highfield, and should have beaten the third. This Saturday’s home game against UCC will be huge for both clubs. UCC could go back to the top with a bonus point win and similarly Clon could see that top four scenario become less impossible should they do the same. It is incredible that only the bottom three clubs are mathematically out of that race. Clon have five games left two against clubs above and three against those below – so all to play for. In Dublin beautiful conditions raised hopes of a good game and The Travelling Faithful were not disappointed. From the kick off Clon exerted pressure and good work by Cribb and Aaron Spring won a penalty which Cribb converted for an early lead. It was short-lived however as Wanderers struck back almost immediately. A move from deep, which seemed to be well covered resulted in a try when Warner showed his class drawing the defence and releasing his winger with perfect timing to devastating effect. Clon seemed to panic as they ran the ball from their own line repeatedly as if playing into a gale force wind. The game was very physical and Clon’s scrum was under intense pressure and creaking. However they regained the lead when Paul Dillon showed his class also with perfect timing. Following a Wanderers scrum the ball was moved quickly across the backline until Dillon intercepted and when caught his offload to Noel O’Sullivan was sublime and the winger did the rest. Cribbs conversion put Clon ahead 5 – 10 and sparked a period of dominance for the visitors. A great take from the restart by Eoin Scannell was taken on by Cribb and John O’Donnell. Joe Knowles was in support and his inside pop to O’Donnell almost had the winger in. The play was very tight with no gaps but Colin Murphy chipped a beautiful ball over the defence and Sully from way out beat all to the touch down to leave the score at 5 – 15 at the break.
The second half was in its infancy when O’Sullivan was almost in for his hat trick. A searing run up the touchline and inside cut wrong-footed the defence and a high tackle was the only way he was stopped. There was no malice in it but it was reckless and most referees would have brandished the yellow card without hesitation. Cribb gave Clon some compensation with the penalty. At 5 – 18 it was looking good but this was a very good, determined and physical Wanderers side fighting for Div 2 survival. They took the game to Clon in no uncertain terms and the character of the visitors was tested. Derek Dillon, John O’Regan, John Darvil and O’Sullivan were to the forefront in passing this test with flying colours. Dillon who had earlier made a break and may not have fancied the 70 metres that faced him found the speed and energy to come from 30 metres to take the Wanderers winger into touch to save a certain try. Darvil’s tackle count was high as usual but those on the receiving end lost some of their enthusiasm for the game. The scrum started to improve and from one excellent set piece Cribb dropped an outrageous goal from 45 metres to put Clon safe at 5 – 21. They had to endure twenty minutes of extreme pressure from the Dubliners before they could celebrate. With the game safe it was sheer pride that kept them tackling and defending to prevent Wanderers from scoring. The D4 outfit were denied a try by the upright once and committed defence regularly but no one would begrudge the try when it came finally given the possession, territory and sustained pressure over that 20 minutes.
The squad was Derek Dillon, John O’Donnell, Paul Dillon, David Lombard, Noel O’Sullivan, Gary Cribb, Colin Murphy, Eddie Knowles, Hugh O’Neill, Joe Knowles, Eoin Scannell, Mike O’Hea, John O’Regan, John Darvil, Aaron Spring, Eoin Murphy, Cathal Kirby, Sean Dignan, Felim O’Neill and Dan O’Donovan. The show moves on to The Vale this Saturday for the second last home game of the campaign and a big West Cork support would be very welcome.
Shandon 13 Clonakilty 12
In a dramatic, hard-fought game that ebbed and flowed throughout, The Bulldogs finally saw their hopes of further progress in the Mick Barry Cup extinguished as they threw away a game that looked won. Coming into the game knowing that they needed to win and ideally secure a bonus point seemed to weigh heavily on the side. Despite the confidence-inspiring victory over Carrigaline the week before, the failure to convert the considerable possession and early dominance they enjoyed into sufficient points consigned them to what was a very disappointing defeat. This committed and skilful side, only promoted to this level this season, will rue the one point defeat. They were inspired by the back row who were outstanding throughout. The dynamic ball-carrying of Gavin Moore, the tireless efficiency of Kenneth O’Regan and the constant support play and hassling of the opposition by Alan Harte laid the foundation for what should have been a victory. Likewise, the backs were being directed by experienced outhalf, Richie Draper with both Timothy Boohig and Felim O’Neill combining on several occasions to open up the overworked Shandon defence It was no surprise that Clonakilty got the first try as young promising prop, Cian Clancy, in only his second game in this specialist position, burrowed over from close-range for a well-deserved score after a period of sustained pressure. Having secured this advantage, Clon will very much regret that they failed to add to this tally with a number of kickable penalties as they sought further tries before half-time. Facilitated by a series of disappointing Clon fumbles and knocks-on, Shandon scored a crucial try coming from a flowing back-line move which was clearly straight off the training ground. to lead 10-5 at half-time. For all of Clon’s skilful, back-line play when they secured good quality possession, Shandon’s half-time lead was directly attributable to their resilience and determination as they showed commendable battling qualities and a distinct, well-executed game-plan. Realising that the initiative, together with the lead, had clearly been lost, scrum-half Emmet McCarthy led the Clonakilty charge in the second half and it was his sniping run off the base of a scrum, and his excellent off-load to the supporting Gavin Moore, that resulted in Clonakilty’s second – and final – try of the game. McCarthy, one of the ever-presents for the Bulldogs this season, has enjoyed a remarkable season littered with vital scores and his bravery, enthusiasm and desire to win was once again plain for all to see and for Gavin Moore, the try was just reward for his man-of-the-match performance. Unfortunately, Clon once again struggled to deal with the pressure that accompanied the lead and needless mistakes brought Shandon back into the game. A penalty gave Shandon a one-point lead they nervously guarded for the last four minutes. Clon threw on replacements to add to the earlier impact of Alan Pettit and Olan Hayes with the hard-working duo of Peter Keohane and Tim Walsh entering the fray to good effect up front and Clon ferociously attacked the Shandon defensive line which held firm. It could all have been very different as, in the last minute, James Deasy lined up a tricky, long-distance penalty from the half-way line and the talented young back’s strike was just wide. Undoubtedly, had the kick gone over, Shandon would have complained bitterly at the win being snatched, but, having lost by a point, Clon will wonder exactly how they conspired to leave the victory behind them.
The Bulldogs have proved that they are capable of competing effectively in this league and the youthful dimension of the team offers much hope for the future as players such as Cian Clancy, Conor O’Neill, Sam Dignan, Mike Griffin, Shane Deane, Peter Keohane, James Deasy and captain Danny Collins have formed the core of this team. Undoubtedly many will go on to feature at higher levels next season. The squad was Mike Griffin, Shane Deane, Cian Clancy, Sam Dignan, Danny Collins (Captain), Alan Harte, Gavin Moore, Kenneth O’Regan, Emmet McCarthy, Ritchie Draper, John Kingston, Timothy Boohig, Felim O’Neill, James Deasy, Gearoid O’Rourke, Alan Pettit, Tim Walsh, Peter Keohane, Tim McCarthy, Colin Bennett, Olan Hayes, John Allmann, Gary Allmann, Brendan Quinty.
The Under 14s had a big win against Crosshaven to keep their season and will go to Musgrave Park on Saturday with confidence to take on Sunday’s Well. The under age highlight will be the meeting of Clon and Highfield in the semi final The Vale. This weekend’s Fixtures
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Sat
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16th
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Seniors
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All Ireland League
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University College Cork
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The Vale
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2.30
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Under 14s
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League
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Sunday’s Well
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Musgrave Park
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12.00
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Under 16s
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Friendly
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Dunmanway
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Dunmanway
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12.00
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Sun
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17th
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Under 18s
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League Semi Final
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Highfield
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The Vale
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12.00
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The club was greatly saddened by the passing of Justin Houlihan, past president, captain and first recipient of the Hall of Fame award for his sterling work for the club through the years. It was the wish of his family that rugby fixtures should go ahead as Justin would have wanted. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a h-anam dílis.
OLD CRESCENT RFC
Pat Rickard PRO
A mixed bag of a week on the results front!
The 1st XV hosted Suttonians on Saturday last in a critical game for both side in the AIL. In excellent conditions, the game commenced with our side enjoying the favour of the elements. Both sides were tentative in the opening exchanges and after swapping penalty kicks early in the game Steven Touhy added a second three pointer to give our side the lead. However, our defensive frailties were again in evidence and the visitors crossed for a converted try to give them the lead. Our side continued to use the elements well for the remainder of the half, but were unable to penetrate the Suttonians defence and we had to settle for two more Stephen Touhy penalties to give us a 12 points to 10 lead at the break. The question on the lips of the supporters at the interval was would the lead be enough given the elements. In entertaining second half where both sides played some good rugby, the visitors took the initiative and scored two tries and a conversion to a late unconverted Alan Purcell try to give them the important victory by 22 points to 17. Indeed the match could have been won in the final moments but a dropped pass ensured that we earned one point rather than four for victory. This weekend we make the short journey to Fitzgerald Park on Saturday to play Thomond in probably the most important match for both teams in recent times. Kick off is at 2.30pm and we would ask as many members as possible to make the journey to support the team.
The 3rds finally got to play their Mc Inerney Quarter Final against Richmond on Saturday. For a long period of the game we were on the back foot but a combination of some canny substitutions and spirited performances in the closing minutes allowed us to snatch victory with a late try. This sets up a mouth watering semi final against Garryowen in the coming weeks.
On the under age front there was a lot of activity last weekend. On Saturday the under 12s played Suttonians in a curtain raiser for the AIL game and both our sides were victorious. On Sunday, the under 12s were again in action at Rosbrien hosting a blitz with Bruff.Richmond, St.Mary’s & Young Munster the visitors. Both teams put in excellent displays.
The under 13s put in another brave performance in defeat to Young Munster while the under 14s like the national side started slowly in their league game against Bruff and despite a great comeback were defeated by 30 points to 22.
The under 18s played Garryowen in a friendly and achieved a memorable victory by three points to nil.
The club held its most recent Car Draw after the AIL game on Saturday and the latest winner of a car is Pat Reddan. Congratulations to Pat on his achievement.
