Shannon Notes November 10th 2007
Two from two is not a way bad to start the AIB league
and to beat a team of Garryowen’s ability and stature twice in three weeks is a
remarkable achievement and it’s a testament to the focus and efforts of our own
lads. Few could quibble with the result of a game that was intense and
passionate right from the first whistle. The two point winning margin is an
equitable reflection of the closeness of the two teams. Another day it could
have gone against us, but that’s what’s great about the AIB league. Make no
mistake however, this victory doesn’t equate to silverware, especially just
with just two games gone in the league. There can be no masking certain
deficiencies in our game and if we are to sustain our winning ways,
improvements will have to be made. I’ve no doubt that Garryowen will bounce
back and will be in the shake up come April. It was a huge boost to have Marcus
Horan available to us and he did contribute handsomely to the win, but it was a
great squad effort and everyone played their part. Marcus was delighted to line
out and only wishes he could do it more often. It’s a little bit strange having
yet another local derby so soon and UL/Bohemian will be coming to Coonagh, also
on the back of two good wins. Their victory last season still rankles, but in
the final game before
The thirds reign as Gleeson league champions game to an end
in most unfortunate circumstances as Thomond claimed a last gasp win in
Woodview last Saturday. Leading 13-12 with 79 minutes on the clock we fell
victim to a classy try by Thomond when they ran the ball from deep in their own
’22 to win by 17-13. It was all going along nicely at the break when we lead
thanks to a try by Jimmy McGovern and a conversion and penalty by Tony Hall.
But the loss of a number of influential players die to injury was to prove
crucial and indeed detrimental to our cause. It was a spirited performance from
the lads but up against a well organised Thomond side it was always going to be
difficult. It’s onwards now for the lads and they still have to defend the
McInerny cup and will challenge for the Webb Cup later in the season. This
Saturday they play
After scoring close to 100 points in their opening two
rounds of the AIL our U/20’s were brought right back down to earth and were
given a serious fright by Galwegians. It took a very late try from Stanley
Hayes to gain parity and then Paddy O’Sullivan’s pressure conversion to win the
game for us. 24-26 it finished and this below par performance and result will
certainly have to be consigned to the lucky Box. Credit is due however in the
manner they eked out the win after trailing for the entire game. This Saturday
at 12.30 they play Garryowen in Dooradoyle.
The seconds were beaten narrowly by UL/Bohs in the league
and will be looking to improve their performance this Sunday when they play
Highfield in Coonagh at 2.30.
The ladies are also in action in Coonagh when they face
Galwegians at
At underage the U/18’s had a great win away to Ennis while
the U/16’s were narrowly beaten by Garryowen in a friendly. This Sunday the
18’s are away to Garryowen and the U/13’s and U/14’s entertain UL/Bohemian in
Coonagh at
Our annual mass for deceased members takes place this
Sunday in St Mary’s church and this year’s mass has been incorporated into the
annual mass for the 38,39,40 team. All members are welcome.
Andrew Mc Namara
Shannon RFC PRO
087 2717163
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