Our under 18.5s made the trip to North Mayo to face a well drilled Ballina side in The Bank of Ireland / Connacht Rugby’s Division 2 League.
A great start to the game by the pack, putting pressure on Ballina deep in their own 22, David was able to win the ball and cross the line to put The Colts up by 5. Unfortunately that kicked started Ballina, who were able 3 unanswered tries. Again the counter ruck worked well for the lads, a penalty was awarded, which Stephen fired through the uprights. Ballina managed to score another before the break to give a half-time score of 8-24.
Recharged after the break, The Colts won the ball in their own 22 getting the ball quickly to the backs, who were able to release Stephen to run through the whole Ballina back division to score a wonder try, which he had to convert himself! 15-24.
Some fantastic rugby from both sides throughout the 2nd half entertained the large crowd. 3 more tries from Ballina give the full time score of 15-45. The score doesn’t reflect the rugby on show by both sides on the night.
Match Highlights. Noeli’s cross field to our flying flanker Ronan H, the winger didn’t expect that! Liam’s “I’ve got this” call. Oisin’s guest appearance at inside centre and the whole teams attempted charge down on the last play of the game, showing their never give up spirit, which will serve them well as the season develops.
Thanks to Declan and the Ballina Crew for hosting us on a mid week game, fantastic hospitality as always. Good luck for the rest of the season and look forward to the return fixture in the new year.
Thanks to Branch Referee Jamie Coyle for letting the game flow for both sides.
1. Eamonn Noone 2. David Woolley 3. Ronan Murphy 4. Michael Kneafsey 5. Dylan Corbett 6. David Loughney 7. Ronan Hett 8. Oisin Gaughan 9. Ethan Higgins 10 Noeli Jennings 11. Paul-Marie Moreau 12. Gustawo Da Silva 13. Stephen Colleran © 14. Darragh Jennings 15. Ben Kilcourse 16. Liam Lavin 17. Lewis Hill 18. Eoghan Loughney.
Next up for the lads a trip down the N17 to face Tuam RFC.