Semi Finals Confirmed With Bandon Inclusion

Bandon Grammar overcame St Munchin’s 17-13 in today’s quarter final of the Clayton Hotels Munster Schools Senior Cup in Bandon RFC, a result that sees the West Cork men reach the semi finals for the first time.

Full report by Ronan Calvert

Munchin's lead after 15 minutes when outhalf Jason Kiely knocked over a penalty but Bandon would score the first try of the day.

The home side had started to show signs of danger since falling behind and made their dominance count just after the 20 minute mark. The forward pack showed their class as they rumbled through the Munchin's defence all the way to the try line and Sean Hudson took his opportunity to convert. 7-3 to Bandon.

Hudson kept his name in the headlines by again making the difference before the half was out. The fullback capitalized on his side's efficient ball retention by picking a superb running line that would slice the defence in two and see him dart all the way through for the try. He converted his own effort from straight in front to widen the gap on the scoresheet to 14-3.

A further kick by Hudson from the halfway pushed Bandon into a demanding 17-3 lead, going into the break.

Just as in the first half, Munchin's were the first to add points after the interval as Jason Kiely took his penalty shot with aplomb. However, that would be the only score of the half right up until the last play of the game.

Despite in the know that the result was beyond doubt, Munchin's showed great spirit in over-time to lodge one final attack. Following an extended period of forward play, number eight Shane Kelly broke through to put some gloss on the scoreboard for the Limerick men.

It finished Bandon 17-13 Munchin's.

Clayton Hotels Munster Schools Senior Cup Semi Final Draw
The semi final draw was made immediately after the game and sees the Bandon side face PBC with Ardscoil meeting Glenstal.

PBC v Bandon Grammar
Ardscoil Rís v Glenstal

The semi-finals in both the Senior and Junior Cup will be played on the week beginning Monday, February 27. Venues, dates and kick off times will be confirmed in due course.

The finals of both Senior and Junior competitions will be held on St Patrick's Day – Friday, March 17.

Ticket Prices
Semi-final: €;8 Adult, €;5 Juvenile (Gate), €;4 (Schools)
Final: €;10 Adult, €;5 Juvenile (No School Rate)